• Heroin was found in a white powder sold as an unknown benzodiazepine in Auckland.
• High Alert recommends drug checking to minimise risks associated with misrepresented substances.
• The powder was tested by the New Zealand Drug Foundation and ESR, confirming heroin presence.

A caution has been issued for Aucklanders after heroin was detected in a white powder that was sold as an unknown benzodiazepine.

Drug harm reduction service High Alert said the powder was presented to a drug checking clinic in the Auckland region. There was no information on its availability in other regions at this stage.

“There is a concern that this powder may continue to be sold as a benzodiazepine,” the service said.

People who consume this powder, believing it to be a benzodiazepine are at risk of experiencing serious harm.

High Alert said some of the effects of heroin can include being in a “dreamlike” state, severe nausea, blue lips, seizures and death.

The sample of white powder presumed to be benzodiazepine was tested at a New Zealand Drug Foundation drug checking clinic in Auckland.

“Further testing was carried out by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), and the preliminary results indicate the presence of heroin,” High Alert said.

No benzodiazepine was detected in this powder, and it is unknown if the powder is still circulating.

How to recognise the drug

High Alert urges Kiwis to exercise caution should they choose to use white powders, and drug checking is recommended to help minimise the risk.

“It is important to never assume that what drug you have is what it has been sold as.

“Misrepresentation can occur anywhere along the supply chain,” High Alert said.

Heroin and benzodiazepines come from different classes of drugs and produce different effects.

High Alert said both substances are central nervous system depressants, but heroin is a potent opioid and large doses can result in serious harm and death.

“People who take multiple benzodiazepine pills at the same time may inadvertently take a dangerous amount of heroin,” High Alert said.

Drug checking services are recommended because they can identify when a substance is not what it has been sold as, the service said.

Heroin was detected in a white powder that was sold as an unknown benzodiazepine in the Auckland region. Photo / File

What to do in an emergency

High alert said if you or someone you know takes a substance, call 111 and ask for an ambulance immediately if you are concerned.

“Tell them what you think has been taken and that it could be an opioid overdose. Be honest about your drug use. You won’t get in trouble, and it could save you or your friend’s life.”

DRUG SAFETY Where to get help:
• 0800 METH HELP (0800 6384 4357)
• Alcohol Drug Helpline (Phone 0800 787 797 or text 8681)
• They also have a Māori line on 0800 787 798 and a Pasifika line on 0800 787 799
• How to stay safer if you're using drugs: The Level
• Where to get your drugs checked: Drug checking clinics