Tests of the contents of Auckland's sewers have revealed worryingly high rates of methamphetamine. The lead researcher behind the Massey University-led pilot study, released today, said the concerning results confirmed meth use was a "serious problem" facing Auckland. Daily tests carried out between May and July 2014 revealed high levels of methamphetamine, codeine, morphine and methadone in both facilities. Two of the detections identified cocaine but not its metabolite, suggesting the disposal of raw cocaine into the sewer rather than cocaine consumption. Massey University drug researcher Associate Professor Chris Wilkins, who co-led the study, said this suggested they were used primarily as party drugs.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 13, 2017 00:56 UTC