A documentary-maker is claiming New Zealand is falling behind the rest of the world in its treatment of cannabis use.

New Zealand has the highest rate of arrests and convictions for cannabis use.

Director of the documentary Druglawed Arik Reiss told Jack Tame a New Zealander is arrested every 30 minutes for what he says is a victimless crime.

"Conviction rates are rising and currently they're at 10 percent of the people in New Zealand prisons...for cannabis offences."

Arik Reiss argues the government's tough stance on cannabis use has drawn resources away from dealing with violent crime.

The documentary Druglawed takes a closer look at New Zealand's stance on prohibiting drugs - laws which are in step with America's War on Drugs.