Emerging Pacific drug economies : perspectives from community voices : a thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Public Health, Massey University

Abstract

This thesis explores the intersection between Pacific communities and emerging illicit drug economies in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Illicit drug economies around the world often share similar structural features, most notably their reliance on the engagement of marginalised and socio-economically disadvantaged communities. While there is limited published research on the specific nature of the illicit drug economy in Aotearoa, New Zealand, emerging evidence suggests that Pacific communities possess both historical and contemporary characteristics common to those involved in drug economies elsewhere. The aim of this project is therefore to explore how illicit drug economies are perceived, navigated, and experienced within Pacific communities in Aotearoa. Grounded in Pacific research methodologies – Talanoa and Fonua – and informed by a thematic analysis, this project drew on interviews with six community members identifying either as elders or young adults of Samoan and Tongan descent. The interviews were structured to investigate three core areas central to answering the project aims: community awareness and knowledge of drug economies; the contextual drivers that sustain illicit activities; and the socio economic and cultural ramifications of engagement. Findings showed that participants held a pragmatic awareness of emerging drug ecosystems, rooted in Pacific community identity and collective values that foster high-trust environments. Historical economic marginalisation, limited employment and social opportunities, and urgent survival needs were identified as key drivers’ motivating Pacific community engagement in these drug economies. Participants described the complex balance between the perceived benefits of engagement – such as access to resources – and the significant legal risks and social costs involved. The research illustrates that Pacific communities fill a role in the existing national drug economy of Aotearoa that is filled by communities in other countries with similar histories of structural and social exclusion and with local social networks. The combination of these two factors extends existing literature on illicit markets by applying models such as the “Hubs and Haven” model to Pacific contexts. While the study provides culturally grounded insights, limitations include a small and geographically specific sample and the ethical and practical constraints of accessing individuals directly involved in illicit activities. Future research should examine long term impacts, assess community interventions, and explore the structural inequalities across Pacific diaspora contexts. These findings have implications for both policy and practice, advocating for interventions that are culturally responsive, community-led, and should address the root socio-economic conditions that sustain illicit economies.