24038 (2025). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health

Written Question

Published date: 05 Jun 2025

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	24038 (2025)
Question asked:	21 May 2025
Member asking:	Ingrid Leary
Portfolio:	Minister for Mental Health
Minister replying:	Hon Matt Doocey
Answer received:	29 May 2025
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_24038_2025
Document guid:	5e3d5aed-7858-4bcf-ac05-842d3b2f4c22

24038 (2025). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health: How does the Needle Exchange Programme service ensure services reach where needed, if at all?

Hon Matt Doocey: I am advised that Health New Zealand funds 20 dedicated exchanges, mobile exchanges, pharmacies and alternative providers nationwide where people who inject drugs can access free needles, syringes and other equipment to support safe injecting practice and reduce the risk of health related complications. Needle exchanges also provide for the safe disposal of used needles and syringes. I am further advised that following a review of the Needle Exchange Programme in 2023, Health NZ considered that enhancements were needed to improve the reach of the current programme and a procurement process is currently underway.