Cocaine use surges in New Zealand as prices fall
Tuesday 6 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 5 reports · updated In this story Massey University
The latest New Zealand Drug Trends Survey shows cocaine use has increased significantly since 2017. Driven by lower prices and greater availability, respondents reported nearly 7kg of cocaine being consumed weekly in the second quarter of 2026. Researchers suggest the drug is becoming more socially accepted.
Key facts
4 facts
- Cocaine use rose from 11% in 2017/18 to 31% in 2026
- Inflation-adjusted price per gram fell from $368 to $247
- Weekly cocaine consumption peaked at 9.4kg in late 2025
- The NZDTS survey has had 3,456 respondents so far in 2026
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
Cocaine use in New Zealand has risen significantly, with nearly a third of respondents to the latest New Zealand Drug Trends Survey (NZDTS) reporting use in the previous six months. This represents an increase from just over 10 percent in 2017/18. The surge is attributed to lower prices, easier access, and growing social acceptance.
Wastewater testing supports these findings, showing estimated weekly cocaine consumption rose from 3.3kg in the first quarter of 2024 to 6.8kg in the second quarter of 2026. Consumption reached a peak of 9.4kg per week in the final quarter of 2025.
The inflation-adjusted price for one gram of cocaine has fallen by approximately 32 percent, dropping from $368 in 2017/18 to $247 in 2026. Researchers suggest this price drop is due to a glut in Central American coca production and new supply routes through the Pacific.
Massey University professor Chris Wilkins described the current situation as a “honeymoon phase”. He stated, “People are yet to experience the serious addiction and social harm that is well-known in mature cocaine markets like North America and Europe”.
Where reports differ
- One report notes the main reason for increasing use was the 'fun/nice effect', while others cite easier access and lower prices
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, Stuff and 1News.