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Does the Minister agree with the mother of the three-rear-old who was accidentally strangled by a corded blind that "no parent should have to expect a hidden industrial hazard in their own home"?

Answered Question 4102 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged

Asked by

Arena Williams

Member for Manurewa · Labour Party

Question

  • Does the Minister agree with the mother of the three-rear-old who was accidentally strangled by a corded blind that "no parent should have to expect a hidden industrial hazard in their own home"?

Answered by

Hon Scott Simpson

Member for Coromandel · National Party · Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Answer

I acknowledge the mother’s profound loss and the concern she has expressed about the risks associated with corded internal window coverings. Product Safety New Zealand provides clear public guidance noting that corded blinds can pose a serious strangulation risk to young children, and it advises households to choose cordless alternatives where possible or ensure existing cords are safely secured with tension devices.