Mad on Meth

In Mad on Meth, Benedict Collins delves into the complex and harrowing journey of methamphetamine use in New Zealand, offering a comprehensive exploration of how pure methamphetamine, once a legally prescribed stimulant, became a scourge that haunts the nation. The book opens readers' eyes to the intricate world behind this illicit drug, from its sinister evolution in New Zealand society to its origins in the notorious Golden Triangle of South-East Asia, a hotspot of meth production. As Collins stitches together a narrative enriched by meticulous research and firsthand insights, he guides us through the unsettling transformation of meth into a substance that wreaks havoc on lives, fuels crimes, and creates an underground culture of addiction and abuse.

Collins does not merely present a collection of grim statistics. Instead, he injects the narrative with dry wit and sharp analysis, offering an engaging yet sobering look into how a moral panic spiraled into a nationwide crisis. He paints a vivid picture of the societal undercurrents driving this epidemic, from daring ram raids for pseudoephedrine to local meth cooks and gangs mimicking the notorious 'Breaking Bad' scenario. Such tales not only shock but challenge readers to think critically about the systemic issues surrounding methamphetamine addiction. Collins visits the sites of massive methamphetamine busts, examines the rise of meth contamination scandals in real estate, and dissects the failed policies that attempted to curb its spread.

But Mad on Meth does not dwell solely on the calamities of meth abuse. It also unveils the often hidden world of white-collar users who contribute to New Zealand's standing as among the top meth consumers globally. In doing so, Collins raises profound questions about the effectiveness of current drug policies, critiquing a 'tough on crime' approach that often leads to unintentionally exacerbating drug crises, transforming tough laws into 'dumb on drugs' policies.

What is the path forward from this labyrinth of addiction and crime? Collins proposes thought-provoking solutions and invites the audience to explore new perspectives on addressing the scourge of meth in a more humane and effective manner. The book is not only a chronicle of despair but also a call for enlightened policy reforms.

'A terrific, gripping read that challenges us to think differently about one of New Zealand’s biggest problems.' — Jarrod Gilbert, bestselling author of Patched: The History of Gangs in New Zealand

'Engrossing and written with flair, Benedict Collins tells the story of how demonising drugs and drug users causes more harm than good. The upside is: there is a better way.' — Professor Michael Baker, co-author of 'Minimising the Harms from Methamphetamine' (NZ Drug Foundation/Helen Clark Foundation)