Drug control services will be in Auckland stadiums from Friday

Drug control services will be available in Auckland’s stadiums for the first time from Friday, following a law change last year.

Nearly 295,000 people will attend spring events at Auckland’s stadiums in the coming months, starting with Listen at music festivalsaid Auckland Unlimited stadium director James Parkinson.

“As we know, with a high turnout comes potential challenges. While most customers enjoy themselves responsibly, there are always those who take it a little too far, putting them and their friends at risk,” Parkinson says.

In addition to legal drug testing, there will also be dedicated chill-out zones, amnesty bins and St John medical services on site.

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Despite the changes, Parkinson said Auckland Stadium’s stance on alcohol abuse and the introduction of banned substances into venues has not changed.

“We all know that recreational drugs can cause problems at major events and recognize the harm these illegal substances cause, so we will do everything we can to prevent them from entering our venues in the first instance.”

A KnowYourStuff Report found that 68% of people who used their drug testing service in 2020/21 said they wouldn’t take a drug after checking the drugs found it wasn’t what they thought it was.

A KnowYourStuff report found that 68% of people who used their drug testing service in 2020/21 said they wouldn't take a drug after finding it wasn't what they thought it was.  (File photo)

Know your stuff/delivered

A KnowYourStuff report found that 68% of people who used their drug testing service in 2020/21 said they wouldn’t take a drug after finding it wasn’t what they thought it was. (File photo)

Jez Weston, a spokesperson for KnowYourStuffNZ, said the service was confidential and helped recreational drug users make informed choices.

“It is always better for people to find out what they have before taking it.

“Our service is free, legal and non-judgmental – we’re here to give people good information and we’re grateful to Auckland Stadiums for the opportunity to do this,” said Weston.

To encourage people to seek help if necessary, the police around the drug control agency will not target drug possession for personal use.

“At tomorrow’s event, we want our customers to know that you can come to us for help if you or your friends need it, without fear of getting into trouble at any time,” Parkinson said. .