The government of New Zealand / Aotearoa expects a legal framework for drug checking services will reduce accidental drug deaths linked to adulterants.

Oregon sets an example by demonstrating how decriminalisation and readily accessible health services result in a marked decrease in drug-related harms.

Tuari Potiki, departing chair of the NZ Drug Foundation, addresses the discriminations Māori face at the hands of New Zealand's punitive drug laws.

The narrow defeat of the referendum on the legal regulation of cannabis should not hinder long-overdue reform.

Already available results indicate an increase in the consumption of cannabis and benzodiazepines, higher prices and more online purchases.

Regulation is likely to lead to better outcomes for health, education and justice, but the bill needs to offer further clarity on issues such as potency and the role of for-benefit companies, according to legal expert.

The proposed bill, which seeks to formalise the existing market and increase investment in health and education programmes, will be voted by referendum in September 2020.

The model includes provisions on hypothecated taxation, social equity and the participation of the Māori people in the system's administration.

The model includes provisions on hypothecated taxation, social equity and the participation of the Māori people in the system's administration.

The New Zealand Drug Foundation provides useful figures on the country's usage of various drugs and alcohol, and reports that although many continue to suffer the situation is improving.