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Does the Minister agree with Consumer New Zealand that "our market place has dramatically changed from major retailers like Kmart selling thousands of goods to people shopping on platforms like Temu and Ali Express, and we really need the government to take this a little more seriously"; if so, what actions is the Minister taking to address contaminated sand products? and 1 other question

Answered 37143, 37144 (2026)
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Asked by

Arena Williams

Member for Manurewa · Labour Party

Questions

  • 37143

    Does the Minister agree with Consumer New Zealand that "our market place has dramatically changed from major retailers like Kmart selling thousands of goods to people shopping on platforms like Temu and Ali Express, and we really need the government to take this a little more seriously"; if so, what actions is the Minister taking to address contaminated sand products?

  • 37144

    Does the Minister agree with Disputes Tribunal Referee Cynthia Hawes that "I do not think that any reasonable parent, acquainted with the fact that the moulding sand contained asbestos, and regardless of the quantity or proportion in the sand, would purchase it for his or her child to play with"; if so, why hasn't the Government introduced a ban on the sale?

Answered by

Cameron Brewer

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

Answer

There are already prohibitions on importing or handling products containing asbestos. I have requested advice from officials to progress measures designed to strengthen assurance that certain consumer sand products supplied in New Zealand are free from asbestos. Further details will be announced once decisions have been finalised.