Following the Psychoactive Substances Act coming into force at midnight (Wednesday 17th July), Police will be proactive in clearing communities of the newly prohibited substances, says Deputy Commissioner Mike Bush.
"Police believe that by severely restricting the sale of these products fewer people will experience the harmful effects of smoking or ingesting unknown synthetic chemicals."
The new legislation means unless a product has been approved by an official regulator, appointed by the Minister of Health, it is no longer legal to sell it.
"It is vital that retailers understand they should remove stock from their shelves as they are no longer allowed to sell these substances.”
Mr Bush says Police will be working closely with their local District Health Boards to ensure that dairies and convenience stores in their communities are not selling these products:
"For the first few weeks we will take an educative approach, but after that there will be strict enforcement of the new legislation.
"There has been significant and justified community concern over the impact these products have had throughout the country, particularly on vulnerable young people, and this legislation is a key means to respond to this harm.
"With the power to take enforcement action, we will be able to respond to community concerns far more effectively."
In contrast to the previous legislative regime, manufacturers will have to prove their product has a low level of harm before it is approved for sale.
While some retailers will be able to apply for a license to sell the approved products, restrictions mean dairies, convenience stores; service stations and so on will not be approved to sell them.
"Any retail business not authorised to sell approved products that flout the law will be investigated and prosecuted," says Mr Bush.
"We also encourage anyone who sees these products being sold by a retailer who they believe shouldn't have them for sale to report it to police immediately."
People can also give information anonymously to Crimestoppers if they wish, on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Media are invited to join a walkabout with Regional Public Health and Police officers as they visit retailers in Lower Hutt at 11am today.
To get further details about the walkabout or to register your interest, please contact Mere Wilson, Senior Media Advisor, NZ Police on 027 437 3020.