1 Sep 2022

Drug Foundation proposes overdose prevention centre in Auckland

From Nine To Noon, 9:05 am on 1 September 2022

The NZ Drug Foundation is proposing a trial of an overdose prevention centre in central Auckland, providing a safe, medically-supervised setting for people who are taking drugs. 

NZ Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm.

NZ Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm. Photo: Supplied/NZ Drug Foundation

The three year pilot programme would also provide basic health, harm reduction and support services. The Drug Foundation hopes it will take drug use off the streets, reduce harm and save lives. 

Its main focus will be those experiencing homelessness, and people who are taking synthetic cannabinoids, a drug which was caused at least 51 deaths between 2016 and 2020.

Kathryn speaks to Sarah Helm, executive director of the Drug Foundation.