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This Insight programme explores cannabis culture of New Zealand and talks to
those involved both in policing and using it, and the pros and cons. It
looks at the effect of cannabis on the economy and the argument for legalising it so growers in poorer areas of the country can benefit from it
Produced and presented by Diana Burns with technical assistance from
Donna Pittaway.
The programme opens by examining recent public and media reaction to three young New Zealand cricketers (Dion Nash, Matthew Hart and Stephen Fleming) admitting smoking cannabis while on a tour of South Africa.
A 1990 survey found 43 percent of New Zealanders had tried cannabis at some time.
Police Cannabis Recovery Unit spokesman Det Snr Sgt Geoff Gunn says cannabis cultivation is widespread, especially in areas like Northland.
The exaggerated claims about the dangers of cannabis made in 1950s films such as "Reefer Madness" are discussed [an excerpt from the film is played]
However, cartoonist Tom Scott believes cannabis is more dangerous than alcohol and explains that this is because of the damage it causes to the hippocampus, mimicking the affects of Alzheimers Disease.
Professor Sally Caswell of Auckland University says it depends on how much is used and for how long. Lung damage will result from long-term use and effects on an unborn foetus are the same as tobacco smoking. Psychotic reactions may result in a small number of pre-disposed people.
[Excerpt of Bob Dylan 'Everybody must get stoned"]
Geoff Gunn talks about the cost of anti-cannabis work by the police, aerial plantation spotting and booby-trapped plots.
Wanganui Police District Commander Alec Waugh refused to take part in a cannabis recovery operation earlier this year, saying it was costly and ineffective.
Dr Phillippa Howden-Chapman of the Wellington School of Medicine agrees.
Ross Henderson of the Drug Foundation observes the revenue from cannabis growing is an important part of the economy of some areas, which are rural, poor with a high Māori population. He observes the liquor industry has a huge stake in keeping cannabis illegal.
Lawyer John Robson is cynical about the police targeting cannabis abuse but being reluctant to police alcohol int he same way.
[Excerpt of Joe Cocker "With a little help from my friends"]
Ron, a grower, talks about who is growing cannabis and why, and the involvement of gangs.
Last month in Gisborne a man tried to pay for an ice-cream with cannabis - an example of how widespread the 'green economy' has become.
John Robson says decriminalisation has to be considered, with the substance needing to be regulated instead.
Sally Caswell, Tom Scott and Ross Henderson comment on the pros and cons of decriminalising cannabis.
Phillippa Howden-Chapman advocates growing cannabis as hemp for legal uses.