Auckland (Avneet Kaur)
New Zealand is introducing tougher controls on nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas”, “NOS” or “nangs”, as the Government moves to curb its growing recreational use and the serious health risks associated with it.
The new rules, which take effect from tomorrow, were first announced in April and are aimed at limiting access to nitrous oxide for non-legitimate purposes while ensuring it remains available for medical, catering and industrial use.
Nitrous oxide is sometimes inhaled for its short-term intoxicating effects, but health officials warn that misuse can cause significant harm, including neurological damage and impaired judgement.
Under the new regulations, anyone wishing to import nitrous oxide into New Zealand will need approval from the Director-General of Health. Applications will be assessed through Medsafe, which will oversee the approval process.
The Government says the changes are designed to better control the supply of the gas and prevent it from being imported for recreational use.
Another major change affects larger nitrous oxide canisters commonly sold as cream chargers. Canisters containing more than 10 grams of nitrous oxide will automatically be classified as psychoactive substances under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013, unless they are intended for approved medical or industrial purposes.
The new classification gives authorities stronger powers to take action against individuals or businesses involved in selling or supplying the gas for recreational use.
People found selling or supplying nitrous oxide with the intention that it be used for its psychoactive effects could face penalties of up to two years in prison or fines of up to $500,000.
Individuals found possessing the gas for recreational use could receive an infringement fine of $500.
Health officials say the risks associated with nitrous oxide are often underestimated. Chief Medical Officer Dr Joe Bourne said the dangers are real and largely preventable.
He warned that use of the gas can cause dizziness, loss of concentration, poor decision-making and unconsciousness. These effects can be particularly dangerous when driving or operating machinery.
Repeated or long-term use can also lead to serious nerve damage, affecting movement, coordination and overall neurological function.
Police have welcomed the new rules, saying they will make enforcement easier and improve public safety. Authorities say nitrous oxide has been linked to dangerous driving incidents and has featured in investigations into several serious and fatal crashes.
The issue has attracted growing attention in recent years. Approximately 1,000 tonnes of nitrous oxide were imported into New Zealand during 2025, prompting concerns about increasing recreational use.
Police have already taken enforcement action against several retailers in the North Island accused of unlawfully selling the gas.
The Government believes the tougher controls will help reduce misuse, improve road safety and better protect New Zealanders from the health risks associated with nitrous oxide abuse.
