A recall of multiple sand-based kids' toys, which were found to have been asbestos-contaminated, has seen some schools shut across the country today, causing widespread concern. 

The closures come after the Ministry of Business and Education announced that “people would need to stop using the products immediately” after they were found to contain tremolite, a form of naturally occurring asbestos. 

The Ministry of Education said approximately 150 schools and 90 early learning services had contacted officials over the issue.

It comes after four additional products tested positive for tremolite asbestos, officials said on Saturday.

The products involved include:

• EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg) – previously recalled

• Creatistics Coloured Sand (1kg) – previously recalled

• Four magic sand products sold at Kmart NZ:

• 14-piece Sand Castle Building Set (Batch no: 42975724)

• Blue Magic Sand (Batch no: 42304364)

• Green Magic Sand (Batch no: 432919650)

• Pink Magic Sand (Batch no: 42304371)

Many concerned consumers took to Reddit to vent their frustrations and concerns over the recalls, with one user writing, “This is turning into a huge problem. Personally, I'd be getting rid of any sand-based toy at this point.”

Another commenter wrote, “We don't test on importing. The only reason anything is ever identified is because Australia does. There's probably a lot more undiscovered products just like this in NZ.” 

If you own any of the contaminated products, MBIE advises:

• Do not let children touch or play with the sand.

• Place the sand in a sealed container, then double-bag in thick plastic, seal it with tape, and clearly label as “Asbestos-Contaminated Material.

• Do not dispose of in household rubbish or vacuum it up. Contact your local council for advice on where and how to dispose of the contaminated material safely.

• Refer to the clean-up and disposal instructions in the Health NZ webpage here: Asbestos in sand(external link)

• Once secure, we encourage people to contact your retailer for a refund under the Consumer Guarantees Act.

• For further advice call the MBIE Consumer line 0508 426 678.

Parents who have concerns about their children’s health after possible exposure to these products are advised to get in touch with Healthline for guidance and support.