Does NZ still have a meth problem?
Despite tighter laws and more public awareness, methamphetamine remains a serious problem in New Zealand. Not just for law enforcement and health agencies, but for landlords, property managers and homeowners too.
Meth in Aotearoa: the facts
- New Zealanders are consuming 27.5 kilograms every week, based on nationwide wastewater testing at the end of 2024, an increase of 96% from records in 2023.
- That equates to an estimated $28 million in social harm every single week.
- We remain in the top four countries globally for meth use per capita:
- Australia
- United States
- Czech Republic
- New Zealand
These aren’t just distant statistics. For property owners, meth contamination can mean costly clean-ups, extended vacancies, and insurance stress.
Recent events underscore the ongoing issue. In April 2025, Customs officers seized an estimated 90.7 kilograms of methamphetamine in two separate incidents at Auckland International Airport. These seizures prevented an estimated NZ$95 million in potential harm and cost to New Zealand.
Additionally, wastewater testing has shown methamphetamine use tripled in Northland last year, which now has the unenviable title of meth capital of New Zealand.
How meth affects your property
Meth is usually smoked inside, which leaves behind chemical residue. This residue can settle on walls, ceilings, carpet, and furnishings. If contamination levels are high enough, the home may be considered unsafe to live in until it has been professionally decontaminated.
How does insurance handle these claims?
With initio, meth claims are covered under our Landlord / Holiday Home policies:
- Cover is up to $30,000, with a $2,500 excess.
From 2023 to now:
- The average claim we’ve settled is $24,800
- Just under 20% of those claims hit the $30,000 limit
- The average duration of a claim is 120 days
Typical cost breakdown
A meth claim isn’t just about one thing. Even minor contamination can lead to significant costs. The $24,800 average usually covers:
- Testing (initial composite + room-by-room detailed testing)
- Specialised decontamination cleaning
- Post-clean testing of the affected rooms
- Remediation (replacement of contaminated soft furnishings such as carpet and curtains etc)
- Loss of rent
So, does NZ still have a meth problem?
Yes. While it might not make headlines as often, the data paints a clear picture. For landlords, it’s still a risk worth understanding – and preparing for.
Related support articles
- Is my rental property covered for Meth?
- Guide to landlord insurance
- Checking for Meth before buying a house
- What to do after a positive Meth test
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