Categorise the Substance
Alcohol is classified as what type of drug?
Depressant
In NZ, how many grams of pure alcohol are in one standard drink?
10 grams
Name one short-term effect of alcohol
- becoming 'drunk' is too vague
Slurred speech / poor judgement / nausea (any valid)
What is the legal age to buy alcohol in NZ?
18 years
What is considered binge drinking for males?
What are the weekly recommended guidelines by
5 standard drinks or more in one occasion
Up to 3 standard drinks a day, and no more than 15 standard drinks per week.
Have at least 2 “alcohol-free” days each week.
Caffeine belongs to which category of drug?
Stimulant
True or False: A standard drink is always the same as a glass of wine or beer poured at home
False
Name one long-term effect of cannabis
Respiratory disease / reduced motivation / cognitive impairment / mental health risks
What is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers under 20?
Zero
Sedatives calm you by making you sleepy, while tranquillisers calm you without producing sleep
*Unless in high doses
LSD and magic mushrooms belong to which group?
Hallucinogens
How long does it take the liver to process one standard drink?
Around one hour
What can happen if alcohol is mixed with other drugs?
Risk of overdose, increased harm, impaired coordination
What is the maximum penalty for supplying cannabis in NZ?
Up to 8 years in jail
List 3 different strategies someone may use to attempt to stay safe while drinking
1. Eat well before drinking - food slows down how quickly alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream.
2. Alternate with water - staying hydrated helps reduce the risk of dehydration and hangovers.
3. Count your standard drinks - keeping track stops you from going over safe limits without realising.
4. Team-up with a mate - Look out for each other
AOI
Name 4 of 5 Class A drug in NZ law
LSD, Magic Mushrooms, Cocaine, Heroine & Methamphetamine
Why is counting glasses or bottles less reliable than using standard drinks?
Because glasses/bottles vary in size and alcohol strength; standard drinks always equal 10g alcohol.
Which organ is most at risk from long-term excessive drinking?
The liver
When can someone under 18 legally drink alcohol in NZ?
If provided by a parent/guardian in a private setting, or with parental consent
Explain why teenagers are more at risk from drug and alcohol use than adults
Their brains and bodies are still developing, so effects are stronger and long-term harm is more likely
Match the following: Xanax, Morphine, Cannabis – what type of drugs are they and what class?
Xanax = Sedative/Tranquiliser - C
Morphine = Opiate - B
Cannabis = Depressant/Hallucinogen - C
Scenario: Your friend asks if you've tried alcohol. They don't know anything about it and want to try it...
Choose one and explain what information you would tell them?
1. Any risk?
2. Short term effects
3. Laws they should be aware of?
1. Any Risk?
Yes. Drinking alcohol affects your brain and body.
It can lower your inhibitions, meaning you might make poor decisions or put yourself in unsafe situations.
Long-term heavy use can damage organs like the liver and increase the risk of cancer.
2. Short-Term Effects
Feeling relaxed, confident, or talkative.
Poor coordination and slower reaction times.
Slurred speech, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
Poor judgement (e.g., unsafe driving or unsafe choices).
3. Laws You Should Know (NZ)
You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol.
If you are under 18, you can only drink alcohol if it’s given by your parent/guardian in a private place.
The blood alcohol limit for drivers under 20 is zero — no alcohol at all is allowed if you are driving.
Scenario: Your friend asks if you've tried cannabis. They don't know anything about it and want to try it...
Choose one and explain what information you would tell them?
1. Any risk?
2. Short term effects
3. Laws they should be aware of?
1. Any Risk?
Yes. Cannabis affects how your brain works - slowing down reaction time, memory, and focus.
Regular use can harm lung health, reduce motivation, and may increase the risk of mental health issues
2. Short-Term Effects
Relaxed or “high” feeling.
Slowed reaction time and poor coordination.
Possible anxiety, paranoia, or panic.
3. Laws You Should Know (NZ)
Cannabis is illegal in New Zealand.
Smoking/using: Up to $500 fine and/or 3 months in jail.
Cultivating (growing): Up to $2000 fine and/or 2 years in jail.
Supplying/dealing: Up to 8 years in jail.
What are the consequences of being caught drink-driving in NZ?
Licence suspension, fines, possible jail, criminal record, demerits
List 3 substances for each category
Class A:
Class B:
Class C:
Class A:
Methamphetamine
Cocaine
LSD
Class B:
Ecstasy (MDMA)
Amphetamines (Speed, Adderall, Ritalin)
Morphine
Class C:
Cannabis
Codeine
Sedatives (e.g., Xanax, Valium)