Why New Zealand is permanently legalising illicit drug consumption at music festivals

The bill, passed 87 to 33 votes, was opposed by only one opposition group. It is likely to come into effect from December.

Earlier this month, New Zealand became the first country in the world to permanently legalise drug checking services. The new law allows individuals, attending any designated event, including music festivals to test the safety of their illicit substances such as ecstasy and MDMA without any legal consequences.

The bill, passed 87 to 33 votes, opposed by only one opposition group. It is likely to come into effect from December. The argument for bringing this legislation is that such drugs obtained from the black market are often contaminated and mixed with cheaper harmful substances causing more damage.