Schools close in New Zealand after play sand recalled over asbestos fears

<p>Six coloured sand products recalled in New Zealand after testing in Australia found asbestos in similar items</p><p>Multiple schools have temporarily closed in New Zealand and hundreds of education facilities are seeking advice from officials after asbestos was detected in several brands of widely used coloured play sand.</p><p>Last week, the ministry for business, innovation and employment confirmed a <a href="https://www.mbie.govt.nz/about/news/recall-expanded-samples-of-kmart-magic-sand-products-found-to-contain-asbestos">voluntary recall was under way</a> for two brands of coloured sand sold in New Zealand, after <a href="https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls/active-sandtub-14-piece-sand-castle-building-set-blue-magic-sand-green-magic-sand-pink-magic-sand-sold-at-kmart-and-target">testing in Australia</a> found asbestos in similar products.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/17/schools-close-in-new-zealand-after-play-sand-recalled-over-asbestos-fears">Continue reading...</a>