Patchy, punitive and failing New Zealand's communities.

That's how a new report commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation and Drug Foundation has described the current approach to reducing meth harm.

It proposes switching the focus from punitive action to a health-based approach - expanding access to holistic treatment, health-checks and information.

Report lead author Philippa Yasbek says they also recommend a pilot to test a stimulate substitute treatment for people who have tried all other avenues.

She says in Canada and Switzerland, psycho-stimulants can be prescribed for people with addiction issues.

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