The New Zealand Needle Exchange Programme provides free or low-cost sterile injecting equipment, like needles and syringes, to anyone who needs it. This also includes a free exchange service where you can return used needles and syringes in exchange for new needles and syringes. Using sterile equipment helps to prevent getting infections.
How could it be helpful?
Using sterile needles will protect you from getting infections and other illnesses. The friendly staff at needle exchange sites can also help you learn techniques to stay safer if you're injecting.
Some needle exchanges also offer free, legal drug checking to help you find out if your drugs are what you think they are, or if they've been mixed with anything else. Find a drug checking clinic near you.
Some needle exchanges can also give you a naloxone kit. Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. We have videos that explain how to use naloxone.
How to access?
You can search your local needle exchange service provider via the NZNEP website. This website also lists the pharmacies and alternate providers who also offer needle exchange services.