Photo Source: Dima Valkov
A recent survey by the 2024 NZDTS survey shows notable changes in the way New Zealanders engage with substances, revealing rising cocaine use and the increasing popularity of vaping.
The survey has spotlighted a growing shift in New Zealand’s substance use patterns, with an uptick in cocaine and vaping rates. At the same time, the popularity of traditional tobacco smoking has dwindled, shedding light on the dynamic nature of local substance habits.
Substance Use at a Glance
Massey University’s 2024 survey, drawing from a sample of 10,781 people, reveals a striking shift in New Zealand’s substance use habits. Cocaine use has nearly doubled, jumping from 12% to 23%, especially in areas like Auckland and Bay of Plenty where availability has increased.
Meanwhile, vaping has skyrocketed to 64% of respondents, surpassing traditional smoking, now at 50%. These changes are indicative of broader trends, with a growing preference for vaping over smoking and the increasing accessibility of illicit drugs.
Key Drug Trends
Cannabis remains by far the most used illicit drug in New Zealand, with 70% of survey participants reporting use. However, there’s a noticeable shift as other substances, like MDMA and psychedelics, are becoming increasingly popular, with 45% of respondents exploring them for recreational and potentially therapeutic purposes.
The usage of ketamine and nitrous oxide has also seen moderate growth, signalling a wider range of drug choices. Cocaine, now spreading across multiple regions, is competing with methamphetamine, which remains dominant in areas like Waikato and Northland.
“You’ve seen coke production increase year on year since around 2018, 2019, so it suggests they are looking to expand,” Massey University researcher Robin van der Sanden told Morning Report.
Regional and Global Influences
The 2024 survey points to clear regional variations in drug use across New Zealand, with methamphetamines still holding a strong foothold in places like Waikato and Northland. On the other hand, psychedelics and ketamine have shown notable increases in certain areas, reflecting localised interest. Professor Chris Wilkins, the lead researcher, attributed the rise in cocaine use to expanded international supply chains that have made the drug more accessible.
Robin van der Sanden suggested that the growing interest in psychedelics could be linked to ongoing discussions about their potential therapeutic benefits, though recreational use remains the primary driver.
Public Health Concerns and Social Impact
The evolving drug trends raise questions about accessibility and public health impacts. The popularity of vaping over traditional tobacco is seen as a positive shift by some experts, as vaping is often considered less harmful. However, the long-term effects and regulation of vaping products remain areas of concern.
Meanwhile, the rise in cocaine use and the continued popularity of substances like methamphetamine underscore the influence of global drug market dynamics on local patterns.
Increased availability of cocaine at stable prices, for instance, may normalise its use among younger demographic, potentially exacerbating social and health challenges.