Psychedelic drugs are mind-altering substances, that induce experiences characterised by cognitive, visual and perceptual distortions. While these substances hold therapeutic potential and have been associated with improved psychological well-being, they also pose risks. Adverse effects include drug-induced psychosis, Hallucinogen Persisting Perceptual Disorder (HPPD), psychedelic flashbacks and serotonin syndrome (SS), as well as negative or challenging psychedelic experiences. Currently, recreational use of psychedelic drugs is increasing, this brings both opportunities for beneficial experiences and increased risks of harms. Therefore, the implementation of harm reduction practices is crucial for protecting individuals from harms associated with psychedelic drug use. The current study aimed to explore the conceptualisation and practice of harm reduction with recreational psychedelic drug use in Aotearoa New Zealand. Thirty-eight participants were recruited to participate in semi-structured, exploratory interviews, where participants discussed a range of topics associated with psychedelic drug use. The study involved 11 focus groups consisting of two- four participants and three individual interviews consisting of one participant. Analysis of interviews focused on the sections relevant to harm reduction behaviours and outcomes. Through reflexive thematic analysis, five themes were generated: (1) sociocultural contextual negative feedback loop; (2) planning is protective; (3) getting to know the drug and supporting the experience; (4) the power of mindset; (5) the environment and elements within it shape the experience. Analysis of these themes revealed key harm reduction strategies and their subjective nature. This study emphasises the importance of promoting harm reduction practices to maximise positive outcomes and mitigate adverse effects. This study provides evidence-based research for harm reduction interventions, to promote harm reduction practices in Aotearoa New Zealand.