The joint venture is trialling an integrated model of police and health activity to reduce methamphetamine demand by enhancing treatment services and increasing responsiveness.
Northland police boss Superintendent Russell le Prou told about 100 people at the launch methamphetamine was one of the biggest drivers of crime in Northland and the biggest issue facing families in the region. A new approach to methamphetamine was needed.
"Police can't arrest our way out of this. To be fair that's the tactic we have been trying for a number of years," he said.
"We are going to focus on those who create their own wealth from selling methamphetamine, that won't change. But the difference will be the connection we make with high end users and those that feel the need to supply to some extent to fund their habit."
Inspector Dean Robinson, who had seen the growth and spread of the drug in Northland, said police were dealing with methamphetamine related problems during most shifts.
He said the drug began to infiltrate the community in 2001. Organised crime syndicates and gangs lead the supply tactics learned from international experience and were about creating demand. And police were discovering meth laboratories, especially in rural areas. Now it is increasingly accessible in Northland.
"We want to see our suppliers who are struggling get into treatment at speed and prioritised. We want to see their families wrapped around so their kids and partners are supported and we want to be a part of that works."
A seven-strong police team has been selected as part of the pilot.
Northland DHB CEO Nick Chamberlain, with 14 years' experience working in the addiction field, said there was hope.
"All of us will know of families who are affected in less dramatic ways but live are destroyed. This is an opportunity for us to make a difference."
"Treatment alone and even prevention and treatment are not going to solve this. It is all of us working together."
Alcohol and drug Helpline 0800 787 797
