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Cannabis Possession Charges Surge 49% Amid Tough Enforcement

3/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cannabis possession charges in New Zealand rose 49% from 2023 to 2025, the highest since the 2019 law change.
Police Director Greg Williams cites wastewater testing as evidence of higher cannabis consumption.
Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick argues the rise reflects the tough-on-crime stance and questions resource use.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell says enforcement remains essential because cannabis possession remains illegal.

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Story summary

Cannabis possession charges in New Zealand rose 49% from 2023 to 2025, the highest since the 2019 law change.
Police Director Greg Williams cites wastewater testing as evidence of higher cannabis consumption.
Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick argues the rise reflects the tough-on-crime stance and questions resource use.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell says enforcement remains essential because cannabis possession remains illegal.