Accidental overdoses killed 169 in NZ last year - NZ Drug Foundation
The NZ Drug Foundation reported 169 accidental overdose deaths in New Zealand for the year, with stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine driving a significant portion of fatalities. Māori and middle-aged adults are disproportionately affected by these preventable deaths.
Why it matters
Rising accidental overdose statistics highlight public health challenges regarding substance abuse, demographic vulnerabilities, and the need for expanded harm reduction strategies.
<p>New Zealand recorded 169 accidental overdose deaths in 2025, according to an analysis by the NZ Drug Foundation – twice the number of people who died from drowning and nearly two-thirds of the road toll.</p> <p>The number appears to have risen compared with previous years, although the foundation is urging caution, with nearly half of the cases still provisional.</p> <p>NZ Drug Foundation executive director Sarah Helm said stimulant deaths had been concerningly high since 2022.</p> <p>“Over the last couple of years, we've seen a huge increase in the amount of methamphetamine and cocaine consumed.
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