Cocaine Use Surges in New Zealand as Prices Drop and Availability Grows

A new report from Massey University’s SHORE & Whāriki Research Centre reveals a significant rise in cocaine use in New Zealand. The proportion of respondents reporting cocaine use increased from 11% in 2017/2018 to 31% in October 2026. Professor Chris Wilkins of the NZ Drug Research Team attributed this trend to greater availability, social acceptance, and declining prices. The reported price of a gram of cocaine dropped from $368 in 2017/18 to $247 in 2026, a 32% decrease when adjusted for inflation.

The survey highlights that while most users consume cocaine monthly or less, weekly and monthly use is likely growing. Those using more cocaine cited increased availability, social acceptance, and lower prices as key reasons. Conversely, users reducing or stopping their intake cited cost and health concerns as primary factors.

The findings align with recent national wastewater testing, which showed cocaine consumption rising from 3.3 kilograms per week in early 2024 to 6.8 kilograms per week in mid-2026, peaking at 9.4 kilograms in late 2025. Professor Wilkins emphasized the importance of monitoring these trends, noting the growing diversity of drug markets and the challenges posed by digital drug markets.

The annual NZDTS survey, conducted by Massey University’s research team, provides critical insights into drug market trends. The 2026 survey has already gathered responses from 3,456 participants, including 1,085 who reported using cocaine in the past six months. The team emphasizes the need for effective prevention and harm-reduction strategies as the cocaine market continues to evolve.