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Story perspectives

New Zealand Faces Drug Crisis as Meth Prices Plummet

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The methamphetamine price in New Zealand fell to $283 per gram in 2025 from $1000 in 2000.
Weekly meth use rose from 27% in 2017 to 57% in 2025.
Cocaine availability has surged, with 43% of users finding it easy to obtain.
The government is considering advisory group recommendations to tackle the growing drug crisis, including a dedicated ministerial role and better data sharing among agencies.

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Story summary

The methamphetamine price in New Zealand fell to $283 per gram in 2025 from $1000 in 2000.
Weekly meth use rose from 27% in 2017 to 57% in 2025.
Cocaine availability has surged, with 43% of users finding it easy to obtain.
The government is considering advisory group recommendations to tackle the growing drug crisis, including a dedicated ministerial role and better data sharing among agencies.