Abstract
Nearly three New Zealanders die from accidental drug overdose every week, a preventable cause of death that disproportionately affects Māori. Fatal accidental overdose has complex, multifactorial causes, including characteristics of the illicit drug supply, individual circumstances, and social and structural factors like housing instability and economic hardship.
Reducing overdose deaths requires a suite of interventions that address these factors. Good Samaritan overdose laws (GSLs) provide legal protections to people seeking emergency help during an overdose, addressing a key situational risk factor. Local evidence shows that fear of legal consequences delays help-seeking and contributes to preventable deaths. International evidence on GSLs is mixed but consistently points in a positive direction.
Introducing GSLs, alongside other harm reduction measures, offers a meaningful, evidence-informed step toward reducing overdose deaths. The Health Select Committee is currently considering such a law through the Drug Overdose (Assistance Protection) Legislation Bill. Submissions are open until 16 June 2026.