“High Alert recommends extreme caution if consuming synthetic cannabinoids, especially in the Auckland region at this time,” the warning said. The alert recommended people who do choose to take synthetic cannabinoids lower their dosage, avoid combining the substance with other drugs and avoid using it alone. High Alert said it is unknown which chemical is responsible for the current wave of harm but testing is being carried out by PHF Science. People who have information should make anonymous reports through the High Alert website using alert ID N25/0056. More information on synthetic cannabinoids is available on the NZ Drug Foundation’s website, The Level.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 24, 2025 06:24 UTC