New Zealand’s “Green Fairy” Accused of Selling Illegal Medicinal Cannabis
A 66-year-old man, known as “Gandalf” to his customers, has been charged with cultivating, possessing, and selling cannabis after a police raid on his rural property in Northland, New Zealand. The operation, which was shut down last week, was allegedly providing cheaper and more accessible medicinal cannabis to hundreds of patients who rely on it to ease their pain.
Gandalf, whose real name is Paul Smith, has become a prominent figure in New Zealand’s underground cannabis market, known for his compassionate approach and affordable prices. However, his operation was deemed illegal by the authorities, and he faces up to eight years in prison if convicted.
The raid on Smith’s property was met with outrage from his customers and supporters, who claim that the police are targeting a vital lifeline for those in need. Over 50 protesters gathered outside the Whangarei District Court on Monday, where Smith pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Protest organizer Pearl Schomburg, who is a patient of Gandalf’s and the convener of Auckland Patients Group, argued that the raid was an attack on hundreds of patients who rely on affordable relief. She claimed that Smith is a compassionate and caring individual who is providing a vital service to those who cannot access legal cannabis due to its high price tag.
The legal cannabis market in New Zealand is limited, and patients must obtain a prescription from a doctor to access it. However, many people are unable to get a prescription or cannot afford the up to $400 a month price tag. As a result, they turn to the underground market, where products are often cheaper and more readily available.
The Green Party co-leader, Chlöe Swarbrick, has thrown her support behind the protesters, calling the raid an “absolutely abysmal waste of public resources.” She argued that the country’s approach to drugs is failing and that a new approach based on harm reduction and evidence is necessary.
The police have declined to comment on the case, citing that it is before the courts. However, the controversy has sparked a wider debate about the need for cannabis law reform in New Zealand.
