Standing with Motueka as we Reduce Meth Harm

A new methamphetamine harm‑reduction programme is being launched in Motueka, with The Salvation Army set to deliver a three‑year pilot aimed at reducing drug‑related harm for individuals, whānau (family) and the wider community. 

The programme is backed by $1.5m in Proceeds of Crime funding, secured by the Ministry of Social Development. While methamphetamine affects communities across the country, Motueka was selected because its size and location mean the funding can make a measurable difference, while also demonstrating what effective, community‑based harm‑reduction can achieve. 

The services delivered will include clinical addiction support, peer support from workers with lived experience, tailored assistance for families, and a community education campaign focused on methamphetamine’s impacts and where to get help. 

‘This mix is what truly helps people break free from methamphetamine harm and rebuild strong, connected lives,’ says Emma Hunter, Service Development Lead at The Salvation Army. 

At its heart, the pilot is about restoring hope and strengthening knowledge for whānau affected.  

‘Our team will run a local education campaign on what meth is, how it harms, and where to get help,’ she says, ‘alongside addiction support from people with real experience.’ 

That blend matters. Evidence and experience tell us people do best when skilled clinicians, trusted peers and community partners surround them with consistent, culturally aware support. 

‘It’s about shaping support around the person in front of us and walking with their whānau, while staying closely connected to the services already serving Motueka. The programme should help us remove existing barriers too, such as travel to larger centres to make it easier to get help early.’ 

It also comes at a critical time. Police wastewater testing has shown that meth consumption nationally surged in 2024, with some analyses pointing to sharp increases across the back half of that year. In Tasman, consumption has stabilised at an elevated baseline—a reminder that even when use isn’t spiking, the ongoing harm to families is very real. Harm‑reduction approaches help us act quickly, wrap practical care around people, and disrupt that harm before it deepens.  

None of this happens without partnership. Local iwi, government agencies, local government and NGOs are backing the pilot, and police are at the table too—a sign of the collective will to make Motueka safer and more connected. That coalition matters as much as any single service we’ll provide; change is durable when it’s shared.  

There’s also something deeply fitting about the funding source. The Proceeds of Crime Fund channels money seized from criminal activity back into communities to reduce harm. In other words, resources once tied to the problem are now part of the solution. That’s good stewardship—and good news for Motueka. 

‘Meth takes a heavy toll, and healing isn’t linear,’ says Emma. 

But the goals are clear: reduce use and related harm, increase access to support, lift awareness and prevention, and improve how agencies work together. If we stay relational, listen well, and keep services person‑ and whānau‑centred, we can help people get free and stay free, while strengthening the whole community around them. That’s the kind of change worth showing up for.  

If you or someone you love needs support, reach out to your local Salvation Army team or talk to your GP, iwi provider, or police—they can connect you to the right help. (In an emergency, always call 111.)