Asbestos and your health

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of many small fibres. These fibres are very strong and are highly resistant to heat, fire, chemicals and wear.

Asbestos in the home

If you think you might have asbestos in your home, your public health service can advise you on how to deal with it.

Dealing with asbestos

If you find asbestos in your home, there are options including leaving it as it is and not disturbing it, sealing, encapsulating or enclosing it, or removing it.

Asbestos in sand

Health Information in response to sand recall ( November 2025)

The potential impact of asbestos exposure on a person’s health occurs over the long term. People do not need to take any immediate steps to manage their health if they, or their children, have been exposed to these products.

Health advice – Recall of coloured sand products containing asbestos

In November 2025, the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) informed health agencies that two imported coloured sand products sold in New Zealand could contain asbestos. These products are used by children and in early childhood settings.

The products, which are sold as ‘EC Rainbow Sand’ (1.3kg) and ‘Creatistics Coloured Sand’ (1kg) are being recalled.

Educational Colours - Rainbow Sand and Creatistics - Coloured Sand - Various Colours — Product Safety Recallexternal link