Calls for CERA to relex cannabis laws

The Aorearoa Legalise Cannabis Party (ALCP) is calling on the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) to its special powers to legalise cannabis in Christchurch.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee said CERA had "wide powers to relax, suspend and extend laws".

The Law commission recently called for a moratorium on medical cannabis arrests.

ALCP Deputy leader Michael Britnell said all Christchurch residents had experienced trauma and stress as a result of the earthquake.

"Cannabis is known to help with post traumatic stress disorder," he said.

"Sativex is already available on prescription from a doctor, we would like to see New Zealand's medpot programme extended."