Harm reduction, Aotearoa.
Harm Reduction
"No judgement. Just care — harm reduction that meets you where you’re at."
Harm reduction is a philosophy and public health strategy that refers to drug use without judgment—prioritising individual and community safety and well-being.
It acknowledges the importance of providing individuals who use substances with resources, information and support to empower them to use drugs and make choices in the safest possible manner—physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, socially, and economically—and neither condemns nor condones use.
This approach refrains from coercing or focusing on reducing or ceasing drug use, recognising that associated harms with drug consumption stem from drug policy, drug law, and existing systems rather than the substances (or their use) themselves. It celebrates peer experience and knowledge as well as shared humanity, empathy, and understanding in an effort to offer practical guidance, advocacy for individual autonomy and choice, and affirms the dignity and human rights of each person.
Harm reduction confronts societal inequalities and inequities (including poverty, discrimination, mental health, racism, sex based discrimination, and social isolation), which significantly impact vulnerability and coping abilities regarding drug-related harms. It prioritises treating individuals as people, not “problems”, involving them in decision-making, and promoting connection across communities. It encourages us to reflect on our personal biases and assumptions and the language we use.
We come into harm reduction work from our own personal experiences with drug use, our love or grief for friends/whanau, our professional experiences and commitments, our exposure to injustice and barriers to equitable health care and social support.
The needle exchanges across Aotearoa aim to create safer, non-judgmental environments offering information, connection, and free, sterile injecting equipment. People who use drugs deserve to be seen and heard and receive the same opportunities that everyone else is entitled to. Nothing about us without us!
Links to key resources (limit to online versions of official pamphlets) Resources.
How ADIO Trust Makes a Difference
Harm Reduction with Heart — Peer-Led Needle Exchange and Health Support in NZ.
Anonymous & Confidential
No judgment, no names — just safe, private support.
Free Injecting Equipment
Clean supplies available at exchanges, vending machines, or by courier.
Peer-Based Support
Run by people with lived experience who understand your needs.
Free Testing for Hep C, HIV & Syphilis
Fast, confidential, followed up by referrals and free treatment if needed.
Discreet Courier Delivery
We’ll send what you need, wherever you are — no questions asked.
24/7 Vending Machines
Access equipment on your schedule, day or night, low cost at 5 locations