The New Zealand government is tightening controls on 23 harmful substances, including three fentanyl-related drugs, to curb the risks posed by synthetic opioids and other dangerous substances.

Cabinet has agreed to progress stronger controls on the substances, increasing penalties and empowering law enforcement agencies to take action against those manufacturing and possessing these drugs, Health Minister Simeon Brown said.

“Peddlers of illicit drugs are a scourge on society and cause devastating harm to families and communities across the country,” Brown said.

“Increasing penalties supports law enforcement agencies to crack down on these peddlers of misery and destruction and supports them to maintain law and order.”

The proposed changes, which follow recommendations from the Expert Advisory Committee on Drugs, aim to limit harm and prevent misuse.

The committee specifically advised the classification of three fentanyl analogues—synthetic opioids often more potent than the drugs they mimic—as Class A controlled drugs. This designation carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment for manufacturing offences.

“We know that fentanyl itself is many times stronger than morphine, and analogues can often be even stronger still,” Brown said. “Peddlers of illicit drugs cause significant harm in our communities and inflict misery on our streets.”

New Zealand currently experiences lower rates of illicit opioid use compared to other nations. However, Brown said the stricter controls will help prevent potential harm should these substances become more available.

Beyond fentanyl analogues, the government is increasing controls on other substances, including synthetic cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids, amphetamine precursors, and novel benzodiazepines, under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975.

Most of these substances were previously regulated at some level, whether as close copies of existing drugs, prescription medicines, or psychoactive substances.

“The Government has also agreed to increase controls on several other substances,” Brown said. “We know how important it is to reduce the impact of drug harm. Ensuring there are stronger controls in place for these harmful substances is a step towards that goal.”

The planned changes have received initial Cabinet approval and will be drafted as an Order in Council.

The proposal will be tabled in Parliament and reviewed by the Health Select Committee before returning to Cabinet for final approval. If accepted, the new regulations are expected to take effect by mid-year.