Police and the Ministry of Health are becoming increasingly concerned with a growing number of incidents involving drivers inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as nangs, laughing gas, or nos.
Police assistant commissioner of road policing and district support Tusha Penny said any substance which affects judgement, coordination, or consciousness can have deadly consequences when someone is behind the wheel.
"We are now seeing an increase in the use of nitrous oxide as a factor in a number of serious crashes, include some crashes where people have died."
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.
It caused a head-on crash that left five people dead.
Police said investigations into other incidents are continuing, and the risks of misusing nitrous oxide are "clear and grave".
"Inhaling nitrous oxide can rapidly cause dizziness, confusion and blackouts," it said.
Penny said police appreciated incidents where the public had reported people using nitrous oxide in vehicles.
"We have taken action in response to those calls, and they have helped prevent harm and likely saved lives."
Police said it is also engaging with retailers and reminding them that the sale of nitrous oxide is illegal for recreational use under the Psychoactive Substances Act.
"We will be providing letters to retailers in areas where this is a known issue over the coming weeks to remind them of their obligations," Penny said.
Ministry of Health chief medical officer Dr Joe Bourne said nitrous oxide can cause significant harm when misused for recreational inhalation.
"Nitrous oxide may seem relatively harmless, but it can cause real damage. When it’s inhaled, the gas pushes oxygen out of your lungs and bloodstream, which can make you dizzy, cause you to black out, or even be life threatening in some cases."
"It should go without saying, that dizzyness or blackouts while driving are extremely dangerous."
Separately, Bourne said heavy, frequent, or chronic use of nitrous oxide can cause nerve damage, leading to weakness, numbness, and long-term problems with movement or coordination.
He advised individuals to contact their health care provider if anyone has used these products and is concerned about their health.
SHARE ME