New Zealand Cocaine Use Surges to Nearly 7 Kilograms Weekly

New research reveals a sharp rise in cocaine use in New Zealand, with residents consuming nearly 7 kilograms of the drug weekly in the second quarter of 2026. This marks a slight decline from the peak of 9.4 kilograms recorded in late 2025, according to police wastewater testing. The surge in usage is attributed to lower prices, greater availability, and growing social acceptance, with the price of cocaine dropping by nearly a third since 2017, from $368 to $247 per gram when adjusted for inflation.

Massey University professor Chris Wilkins, who leads the New Zealand Drug Trends Survey (NZDTS), notes that while cocaine use has tripled since 2017, with 31% of respondents reporting use compared to 11% in 2017/2018, most users consume it infrequently. Wilkins warns that this perception of low risk could lead to underestimating the drug's dangers, as New Zealand lacks the cultural memory of severe cocaine-related harm seen in other regions. He also highlights the risk of fentanyl entering the market through established cocaine and methamphetamine supply routes.

Experts emphasize the need for harm reduction strategies, including expanded drug testing and education. Dr. Rhys Ponton from the University of Auckland points out that continued price drops will likely drive further increases in usage. Professor Khylee Quince of the University of Auckland Law School notes a misconception that cocaine is safer, partly due to its association with socio-economic advantage. Meanwhile, Dr. Fiona Hutton of the University of Wellington advises against moral panic and encourages informed drug use through services like KnowYourStuffNZ.