Waipukurau battles soaring meth use with community-wide crackdown and new harm-reduction plan
Meth consumption in Waipukurau has surged, prompting police arrests, a newly formed harm-reduction group and a $2.32 million government investment.
In Waipukurau, a rural centre of Central Hawke's Bay, methamphetamine use has jumped dramatically, with wastewater data indicating consumption of more than 4.8 grams per day per thousand residents—a 333 % increase over a year. A covert police operation resulted in three arrests for supply in December 2025, but officials say the problem is broader than a few dealers. Former addict and social support worker known only as Bob describes meth as becoming normalized across various community pockets.
Sergeant Neil Baker notes that many users appear to function daily while maintaining employment, and that distribution networks extend beyond traditional gang circles. In response, the Central Hawke's Bay Methamphetamine Harm Reduction Group was formed in 2024, funded by the Resilience to Organised Crime in Communities programme, and has drafted a community-focused action plan. Mayor Will Foley and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey highlight the need for more detox facilities and announce a $2.32 million investment to expand peer-led and specialist addiction services.
