Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used drugs in New Zealand. 

While most New Zealanders enjoy alcohol in moderation most of the time, there are negative health and social consequences associated with drinking. Negative consequences include hospital admissions, deaths, road accidents and assaults.

Drinking problems and dependence on alcohol affect people's lives and the lives of those around them. There is some evidence that small amounts of alcohol are of benefit to those middle-aged people at risk of certain heart diseases. 

Drinking patterns vary with gender and age. Alcohol is consumed most commonly in homes but is also often drunk in bars and pubs, sports clubs, restaurants and at work. Total alcohol available for consumption has been declining since 1990, though in recent years it has begun to rise again.

Binge drinking is the most significant and common aspect of overall alcohol misuse, and these behaviours cross all socio-economic groups. The New Zealand Health Survey found that 17.7 percent of us are hazardous drinkers . The ALAC (Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand) Alcohol Monitor classifies 25 percent of New Zealanders as binge drinkers . Additionally, certain groups are disproportionately impacted by alcohol misuse (young people, Pacific and Mäori communities). Also, alcohol misuse has especially adverse effects on unborn children.

For statistics relating to alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm in New Zealand please visit the Alcohol Advisory Council's (ALAC) website.