The Maori Relationship with Weed
The use of marijuana has been a part of the traditional Maori culture for hundreds of years. Before the arrival of Europeans to New Zealand, cannabis was used for medicinal and spiritual purposes. It was only in the 20th century that the use of cannabis became increasingly prohibited in New Zealand.
Despite the government’s efforts to eradicate the use of marijuana, there is still a significant number of people who use it recreationally in New Zealand. The legalization of cannabis has always been a topic of debate in the country, but it hasn’t yet been legalized.
The Prohibition Era
In the early 1900s, New Zealand followed the footsteps of many countries to prohibit the use of cannabis. The government deemed it harmful to the population and a threat to society. In 1927, the first cannabis-based offense was recorded, and the police started to crack down on cannabis use.
The Rise of ‘Green Fairies’
The prohibition of cannabis did not stop people from using it. In the 1970s, a subculture emerged in New Zealand known as ‘Green Fairies.’ These were people who grew and distributed cannabis for medicinal purposes. The Green Fairies operated in secrecy, and many people relied on them for access to the drug.
The Current Situation
The use of cannabis is still illegal in New Zealand, but there have been recent developments in the legalization of medicinal marijuana. In 2018, the government passed a law that allowed terminally ill patients to use cannabis without the fear of prosecution. In 2019, the government made amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act, allowing doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients with chronic pain.
Cannabis Strains in New Zealand
New Zealand has a diverse range of cannabis strains. The most popular strains in New Zealand are Sativa and Indica strains. Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energetic effects, while Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects.
The Most Popular Strains in New Zealand
- ‘Pineapple Express’ is a Sativa-dominant hybrid popular for its fruity flavor and uplifting effects.
- ‘Purple Haze’ is a Sativa-dominant strain known for its cerebral high and creative effects.
- ‘Northern Lights’ is an Indica-dominant strain popular for its relaxing effects and sweet flavor.
The Rise of CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is known for its medicinal properties, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. In recent years, CBD has become increasingly popular in New Zealand, and many people are now using it as a natural alternative to traditional medicines.
The Future of Weed Culture in New Zealand
The future of weed culture in New Zealand is uncertain. The government is currently considering a bill to legalize the use of cannabis for recreational purposes. If the bill is passed, New Zealand will become the third country in the world to legalize cannabis.
The Benefits of Legalization
Legalization of cannabis will have many benefits for New Zealand. It will create jobs, generate revenue for the government, and reduce the number of people being prosecuted for minor drug offenses. Legalization will also allow for more research into the medicinal properties of marijuana, leading to better treatment options for patients.
The Risks of Legalization
Legalization of cannabis also comes with risks. There may be an increase in the number of people using the drug, leading to potential health risks. There may also be an increase in the number of people driving under the influence of cannabis, leading to potential road safety issues.
Conclusion
Weed culture has a long history in New Zealand, and it continues to thrive despite the prohibition of cannabis. The country has a diverse range of cannabis strains, and CBD has become increasingly popular in recent years. The future of weed culture in New Zealand is uncertain, but the government is currently considering a bill to legalize recreational cannabis use. The benefits of legalization are numerous, but it also comes with its risks. It is up to the government and the people of New Zealand to decide if legalization is the right step forward.
