Cannabis
A.K.A: Marijuana, Weed, Buds, Pot
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in New Zealand. It comes in many forms including bud (flower), oils, resins, and edibles.
The two main parts of cannabis are THC and CBD. THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis which makes people feel ‘high’. THC can make you feel relaxed, giddy, and euphoric. It can also make you feel anxious, drowsy, and paranoid. CBD is not psychoactive but is used to treat a variety of conditions including pain, anxiety, and sleep problems.
How to be safer when using cannabis
- Avoid relying on cannabis to fall asleep.
- Vaping cannabis produces less irritants than smoking it.
- Avoid mixing with tobacco as the nicotine in tobacco is highly addictive.
- If you are using edibles, wait an hour for the effects to kick in before deciding to take more.
Related data
Related articles
Report: What we saw at drug checking in 2025
Key insights from our drug checking services in 2025.
Growing demand shows addictions sector needs more investment
An increase in people accessing specialist addiction treatment highlights the hard work the sector is doing despite a longstanding lack of funding
Roadside drug testing: what you need to know
Random roadside saliva tests are rolling out from December 2025.