Legislation that would force some drug addicts to go into compulsory treatment has had its first reading in Parliament.
The bill is part of the government's action plan to tackle methamphetamine abuse.
It would provide for the compulsory treatment of people with severe drug addictions, who are deemed to be incapable of seeking treatment by themselves.
Associate Health Minister Peter Dunne says after a short period of compulsory treatment, the individual would then be moved into voluntary treatment.
Mr Dunne welcomed the universal parliamentary support the bill received.
It will now go to Parliament's health select committee for public consultation.
