Real Life: Chasing The Ghost

Description: Broadcaster Paul Holmes has made an insightful and revealing documentary on his personal journey to get some answers about one of the most urgent issues facing lawmakers in this country. The media has been vigorously reporting developments Paul’s daughter Millie’s battle with the drug "P" - pure methamphetamine. Millie’s court appearances over the last year or so have attracted intense media attention - something Paul Holmes says he doesn’t resent, but admits the affair has been very bruising emotionally. All of this against a backdrop of New Zealand having one of the worst rates of methamphetamine abuse in the world. In the documentary Chasing the Ghost, Paul views the "P" issue through the eyes of people whose lives have been damaged by the drug and some of those trying to fight its effects. On his journey of inquiry, Paul says he has encountered some of the most searing stories of personal pain and destruction he has covered in decades of broadcasting. "It takes your breath away," says Holmes. "From the attractive and talented former beauty queen facing attempted murder charges, through to a disabled grandma caring for her daughter’s kids in a climate of fear, abduction and death threats." "The whole thing made me more determined than ever, that we have to come up with sound national strategies to beat this drug." Holmes says he has found the new Government informed and motivated on the battle to fight "P", and emerged from the documentary feeling hopeful that New Zealand may be on the path to making inroads against "P". "I know my own family and many other Kiwi families will heave a big sigh of relief once we sense some strong plans are in place," says Paul.