37142 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Written Question

Published date: 01 Sep 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	37142 (2026)
Question asked:	18 Aug 2026
Member asking:	Arena Williams
Portfolio:	Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Minister replying:	Cameron Brewer
Answer received:	26 Aug 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_37142_2026
Document guid:	592b7e63-9c87-4b2c-8e3d-45485ccb7e53

37142 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: 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?

Cameron Brewer: 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.