The Government is tightening controls on nitrous oxide, also known as nangs, laughing gas or nos, in a bid to curb recreational use and make it easier to target illegal sales.
Health Minister Simeon Brown and Police Minister Mark Mitchell today announced a package of changes aimed at reducing harm from the gas, which is often inhaled for a brief high.
Under the new measures, imports of nitrous oxide will now require direct approval from the Director-General of Health, while large cannisters containing more than 10g will automatically be classified as psychoactive substances.
Brown said although recreational use of nangs was already illegal, misuse was continuing to rise and had become a serious public health concern.
“Short-term effects such as dizziness, impaired judgement and blackouts are dangerous, particularly when combined with driving or when mixed with alcohol or other drugs," he said.
"With heavy or repeated use, the risks increase further, including damage to the nervous system and long-term neurological injury.
"The harms can be significant and long-lasting, and it is clear we need to do more."
Police have linked nitrous oxide use to a "growing number" of serious crashes over the past few years, including several fatal incidents.
Last year, a Coroner's report revealed a driver at fault in a 2024 crash was "significantly impaired" by nitrous oxide when they crossed the centre line into oncoming traffic in Waikato, killing five people.
The new import restrictions, put in place under the Customs and Excise Act 2018, will aim to stop nitrous oxide intended for recreational use from entering the country, while still allowing for legitimate medical and commercial users access.
Nitrous oxide has recognised uses in healthcare, including anesthesia and pain relief, and is also commonly used in whipped cream production and automotive applications.
Mitchell said there was "no reason" for dairies or vape stores to be selling nitrous oxide.
"Automatically classifying large canisters as psychoactive substances will make enforcement simpler and more effective for police,” he said.
"Anyone who sells or supplies nitrous oxide for the purpose of inducing a psychoactive effect already faces penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment or fines of up to $500,000. These changes close loopholes and give police clearer tools to crack down on those putting New Zealanders at risk.
"We are focused on reducing harm, backing enforcement, and targeting those who peddle harm in our communities. This is a practical, common-sense step to reduce harm and keep New Zealanders safe."
Last week police said five retailers were facing prosecution for the illegal sale of nitrous oxide, following recent operations across the North Island.
Police said the retailers have been charged under the Psychoactive Substances Act after controlled purchase operations in New Plymouth, Hāwera, Whanganui, Palmerston North, and Levin found the substance was being sold unlawfully.
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