In 2003 Methamphetamine was changed from a Class B to a Class A drug pursuant to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. This was done in recognition of the Meth epidemic that was sweeping New Zealand at that time. It increased the maximum penalties for possession and dealing to 6 months and life imprisonment respectively. (please see the attached downloadable legislation)

Whilst It is important to understand the legal consequences of using Methamphetamine, the legal status of the drug does not change the effects of the drug on the human body and brain. This is the most important aspect of drug education.