Through the Maze: On the road to health Symposium

In Aotearoa the government and sector are committed to a health-based approach to drugs, so we're honoured that our 2021 symposium will be hosted by Health Minister Andrew Little.

This year, in the context of a rapid global shift away from the so-called ‘war on drugs’, our symposium will assess how we are doing and ask what we need to truly shift to a health-based approach.

Through the Maze: On the road to health Symposium has now sold out. You can add your name to the wait list here. 

The programme aims to stretch our understanding of, and commitment to, building a health-based approach to drugs. Our programme has been devised to draw on international experience, the past, and promising domestic examples.

We are bringing together both policymakers and our wider sector to consider what policies and health interventions are needed to get to a health-based approach, with discussion provided for in 'world cafe' sessions to encourage engagement and planning across government and NGOs.

We will also consider methamphetamine. And we will hear about the importance of addressing stigma.

Let's continue to create the world we want together.

We're really excited to bring you a powerful line-up of speakers ready to share practical, evidence-based solutions and ideas. They represent the top thinkers in their field, both on the global stage and from the front lines here in Aotearoa NZ.

Here's just a few of our speakers - we'll update as more confirm.

Prof Michael Baker: Epidemiologist, School of Public Health, Otago University; Director, Health Environment Infection Research Unit (HEIRU); Wellingtonian of the Year 2021

Rt Hon Helen Clark: Former NZ Prime Minister, Chair of the Global Commission on Drug Policy

Dr Huhana Hickey: Lawyer, academic, and disability and medicinal cannabis advocate.

Dr Fiona Hutton: VUW Associate Professor of Criminology, AoD and harm reduction researcher.  Currently researching the experiences of those with a drug-related conviction, and how the intoxication practices of diverse groups are experienced and responded to. 

Prof Nicole Lee: Founder and CEO of 360Edge, Adjunct Professor at the National Drug Research Institute,  and an expert adviser to the Australian Government on drugs.  

Tuari Potiki: Former Drug Foundation chair. Current Director of Maori Development, Otago University, with over 25 years experience in Māori health, mental health, education and justice sectors.