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Does the Minister agree with Disputes Tribunal Referee Cynthia Hawes that, in respect of the asbestos contaminated sand sold by Kmart in New Zealand, the sand should not have been offered for sale; if so, should it still be available for sale in New Zealand?

Answered Question 37142 (2026)
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Asked by

Arena Williams

Member for Manurewa · Labour Party

Question

  • Does the Minister agree with Disputes Tribunal Referee Cynthia Hawes that, in respect of the asbestos contaminated sand sold by Kmart in New Zealand, the sand should not have been offered for sale; if so, should it still be available for sale in New Zealand?

Answered by

Cameron Brewer

Member for Upper Harbour · National Party · Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Answer

Products containing asbestos should not be supplied in New Zealand. Where products are identified as containing asbestos, appropriate action, including recalls, are expected. I am considering further measures aimed at reducing the risk of asbestos-contaminated sand products being supplied in New Zealand.