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February 11, 2026
Growing Concern Over Nangs Use: Public Health Researcher Calls for Better Education and Harm Reduction
Dale Husband
Posted On February 11, 2026
Download AudioAotearoa is seeing increasing concern around the use of nitrous oxide – commonly known as nangs – particularly among rangatahi.
Dr Jai Whelan of Ngāi Te Rangi, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Public Health whose work focuses on drug use, harm reduction and reducing stigma, says the conversation needs to move beyond moral panic and towards clear, evidence-based public education.
Nitrous oxide has long been legally available for culinary use in whipped cream canisters, making it relatively easy to access. In recent years, social media visibility, peer influence and the perception that it is a low-risk substance have contributed to its rise in recreational use.
Among young people, nangs are often viewed as socially acceptable or harmless because they are not traditionally framed in the same category as illicit drugs. Their legality and availability through retail outlets add to that perception.
Researchers are observing patterns of more frequent use at parties and gatherings, but also a concerning trend of heavier or repeated use among some individuals.
While nitrous oxide can produce short-lived euphoria and dissociation, frequent or high-volume use carries significant health risks.
Repeated exposure can lead to vitamin B12 depletion, which in turn can cause nerve damage, numbness in limbs, difficulty walking, cognitive impairment and, in severe cases, long-term neurological harm.
There are also risks of oxygen deprivation if nangs are inhaled in enclosed spaces or improperly. Accidental injury is another concern, as the substance impairs coordination and awareness.
Public health experts warn that the perception of safety may lead some young people to underestimate cumulative harm.
Dr Whelan’s research highlights that stigma remains one of the greatest barriers preventing rangatahi from seeking support.
Young people may fear judgment from whānau, schools or health professionals. They may also worry about legal consequences or social backlash.
Stigma can discourage open conversations and prevent early intervention when patterns of use become harmful.
Harm reduction approaches, by contrast, focus on practical education, safety information and non-judgmental support. These approaches aim to reduce harm whether or not a person chooses to stop using a substance.
Creating culturally safe spaces for kōrero is especially important for Māori rangatahi, who already face inequities in health access and outcomes.
Public health professionals are encouraging rangatahi and whānau to seek information from trusted health services rather than relying solely on peer advice or social media.
Drug checking services, youth health clinics, general practitioners and community health providers can offer accurate information about risks and safer-use practices.
National harm-reduction organisations and helplines also provide confidential advice and support.
The emphasis, researchers say, should be on education and early engagement – ensuring that young people understand the risks before harm occurs.
The rise in nangs use among young people reflects a broader challenge for public health: substances that are legal or easily accessible can still cause harm if used unsafely.
Experts argue that proactive education, stigma reduction and culturally responsive services are critical to preventing long-term damage.
For Dr Whelan and others working in harm reduction, the priority is clear – equip rangatahi with the knowledge to make informed decisions and ensure that when they need support, they can access it without fear or shame.
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