Needle Exchange Programme
In Whakatū Nelson
Ratonga whainga - about this service
Te Piki Oranga is the local provider of the New Zealand Needle Exchange Programme in the Whakatū / Nelson region.
Our Needle Exchange Tautoko Team (NETT) provide people who inject drugs with easy, confidential and free access to the equipment they need to stay safe from harm.
We are part of Te Waipounamu Collective, alongside Ngā Kete Matauranga Pounamu, He Waka Tapu and Poutini Waiora, who collectively provide this service for whānau in the South Island. Te Waipounamu Collective became the new provider in the South Island from 1 October 2025.
More information about the Collective and how it works is available on their website.
Needle Exchange Tautoki Team kaimahi, photographed at the blessing of the Needle Exchange Porgramme tari on 1 October 2025.
What we provide:
free injecting equipment
safe disposal options
peer-led advice and support
fast online ordering
confidential, stigma-free service
Harm reduction is one of our main service goals
We recognise that drug use is a reality and that safety and health must come first. We work to:
minimise the risk of infection
prevent the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C
provide safer injecting equipment
ensure access to support and education
Confidentiality is assured. Your privacy is protected.
all orders and interactions are confidential
your name is never required
your information is never stored or shared beyond what’s needed to provide you with equipment
Whakaurunga paearu - how to access this service
This service is available as a free, walk-in service to people of all ethnicities.
Location: 1/63 Collingwood St, Nelson (the former Community Law building)
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm
Phone: 0800 SWAP IT (0800 792 748)
Email: admin@tpo.org.nz
Needle exchange options outside of Whakatū Nelson
Some pharmacies provide needle exchange services in the wider Nelson Tasman region and in Wairau / Marlborough.
They supply premade packs that suit the needs of people’s drug use patterns.
Use the ‘outlet finder’ tool on the New Zealand Needle Exchange Programme website to find the closest provider to you.
