New research indicates a concerning trend in New Zealand: methamphetamine is more affordable and more widely used than ever before. A recent Drug Trends Survey, involving over 8800 participants between May and October 2025, revealed the lowest recorded price for the drug alongside a doubling of consumption within a single year.
Methamphetamine Prices Plummet
The average price for a “point” – 100 milligrams, considered a standard dose – is now $74. The cost of a gram has been cut in half over the past eight years, falling from $563 in 2017 to $334 in 2025, or $253 when adjusted for inflation. This increased affordability coincides with a significant rise in use, prompting concern from researchers.
Professor Chris Wilkins, leader of the research team from Massey University’s SHORE and Whāriki Research Centre, noted the increase in methamphetamine use is a cause for concern. He also highlighted a shift in the drug’s origins, with Mexican drug cartels playing an increasingly prominent role in trafficking methamphetamine to New Zealand, alongside the traditional source of Myanmar.
Cocaine Use Rises, Other Drugs Decline
While methamphetamine use is surging, researchers also observed a rise in cocaine use, with more people reporting use than ever before. However, cocaine remains less prevalent than methamphetamine. Over 40 percent of cocaine users reported the drug was easy to obtain, a significant increase from less than 20 percent in 2018. The price of cocaine remains high and is disproportionately used by those with higher incomes.
Conversely, the survey documented a decline in the use of alcohol, smoking, and vaping. Vaping, which saw a rapid increase between 2020 and 2024, has recently decreased, potentially due to stricter regulations and increased social controls, particularly aimed at young people. There was also a surprising decline in the use of MDMA and LSD, despite growing interest in these substances for therapeutic purposes.
Professor Wilkins linked the increase in methamphetamine use to the growing influence of Mexican drug cartels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “point” of methamphetamine?
According to the survey, a “point” refers to 100 milligrams of methamphetamine, considered a standard dose.
How has the price of methamphetamine changed over time?
The price of a gram of methamphetamine has halved in the last eight years, decreasing from $563 in 2017 to $334 in 2025, or $253 when adjusted for inflation.
What other drugs were examined in the survey?
The survey examined trends in the use of methamphetamine, cocaine, alcohol, vaping, smoking, MDMA, and LSD.
Given these shifting trends in drug use and availability, what steps might communities and policymakers consider to address the potential public health consequences?
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