Trends in toxicological findings and drug seizures of MDMA in New Zealand from 2010 to 2022
Journal of Forensic Sciences February 12, 2026 Thomas Sheehan, Hilary J Hamnett, Sarah G. G. Russell et al.
MDMA (ecstasy) is used by 4.8% of New Zealanders aged 15 or older. In coronial cases (131 positive for MDMA), the average blood concentration was 0.88 mg/L; in driving-under-the-influence cases (193 positive), the average was 0.23 mg/L. Over 85% of cases also involved other drugs, most often cannabis and alcohol. Drug seizures averaged 71% purity, with capsules being the purest. The data inform forensic toxicology and drug policy.