Retail NZ has raised concerns the growing use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as nangs, is contributing to retail crime across New Zealand.

Police announced last week they would increase efforts to clamp down on the improper use of nitrous oxide, saying it was behind a rising number of traffic crashes caused by drivers impaired after inhaling the gas.

Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young urged retailers to work with police. “We are calling on retailers to cooperate with police efforts to stamp out the improper and unsafe use of nitrous oxide cannisters,” Young said.

“We have sent guidance to our members outlining their responsibilities if they are selling these products, reminding them that they can only be sold to people for legitimate purposes, such as whipping cream, and if they suspect the buyer is purchasing it to huff, to refuse the sale,” she said.

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“Worryingly, we are also hearing reports of nangs use being a driver behind some incidents of retail crime. Not only are the cannisters being stolen from shelves, but some larger scale robberies and ram raids have been linked to offenders planning to use the profits from the stolen goods to finance their nangs habit,” she said.

Retail NZ is recommending non specialist retailers reconsider stocking the cannisters, saying those who need them for legitimate purposes can purchase them from specialist suppliers.

Young said Retail NZ supported police efforts and welcomed the graduated approach to enforcement, beginning with education visits to ensure retailers understood the products could not be sold for inhalation.