Imagine discovering that the colorful sand your child plays with could contain a deadly substance like asbestos. It’s a parent’s worst nightmare, and it’s happening right now. Following a recent asbestos scare, consumers are being urged to take a hard look at imported products, especially those designed for kids, and assume they haven’t been properly tested. But here’s where it gets even more alarming: despite strict laws banning asbestos in imports, some products are slipping through the cracks, putting families at risk.
On November 25, 2025, authorities recalled several brands of children’s colored play sand after tests revealed the presence of tremolite asbestos, a known carcinogen. And this is the part most people miss: the recall expanded to include two more products—the Rainbow Sand Art Toy, with approximately 800 units sold nationwide, and another sand craft item. These discoveries raise serious questions about the safety of imported goods and the effectiveness of current regulations.
University of Auckland law professor Alex Sims warns that shoppers shouldn’t blindly trust that the law is being followed. ‘We’ve seen it with the colored sand, but honestly, who would suspect asbestos in a child’s toy?’ she notes. While retailers and importers are legally responsible for ensuring products are safe, Sims points out that enforcement is inconsistent. ‘There are plenty of laws, but it’s up to those selling and importing to comply—and that doesn’t always happen,’ she explains.
Safety issues with imported products aren’t new, but they often fly under the radar until a crisis occurs. ‘It usually takes a near-tragedy for action to be taken,’ Sims says. ‘Prosecutions happen after the fact, when it’s too late.’ She suggests spot checks by agencies like the Commerce Commission could help, but acknowledges the sheer volume of products makes this daunting.
For parents seeking reimbursement for asbestos testing or cleanup, Sims advises holding retailers accountable under the Consumer Guarantees Act. ‘If a product is unsafe, you’re entitled to a refund, testing costs, and even replacement of damaged items like carpets,’ she explains. However, she admits this process is rarely straightforward. ‘The only real option right now is to take it to the disputes tribunal,’ she adds.
Controversially, Sims argues that the onus ultimately falls on buyers to be vigilant. ‘The laws exist, but as we’ve seen, they’re not protecting anyone. It’s a classic case of ‘buyer beware,’ she says. With Christmas approaching, she recommends opting for simpler, traditional toys like unpainted wooden items.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) is working with retailers to trace the supply chains of contaminated sand products. Ian Caplin, MBIE’s product safety spokesman, emphasizes that retailers are responsible for selling safe goods, and asbestos imports are strictly prohibited without a permit. Notably, Kmart, a major retailer involved, has not responded to requests for comment.
But here’s the real question: Are we doing enough to protect our children from hidden dangers in everyday products? And if not, what more should be done? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation we can’t afford to ignore.
