Bong dealers sidestep ban

Retailers are continuing to sell bongs and pipes despite a new law prohibiting the sale of cannabis utensils.

The health regulation, which became effective at the start of the month, was initially introduced by the National Government.

It prohibits the importation and supply of cannabis utensils, including "paraphernalia which may be used for administering cannabis."

But some retailers say the new law has loopholes, and many have already found ways around it.

Chris Fowlie, owner of The Hemp Store in Auckland and spokesman for the National Organisation for Reform of Marijuana Laws (Norml), said the regulation was unworkable and counter-productive.

He would continue to sell the banned products, but would comply with the law by renaming them.

"Instead of bongs we'll be selling vases or ornaments. If people choose to use these for cannabis, that's their business."

The use of pipes or bongs minimised the intake of harmful substances in cannabis, and banning them would not cut drug use, said Mr Fowlie.

He would consider legal action against the Government if the law hurt his business.

A number of retailers were looking at banding together to fight the measure.

Cosmic Corner owner Mark Carswell said he would adopt a wait-and-see approach.

He hoped to discuss the law with Health Ministry officials next week.

The maximum penalty for an individual selling cannabis pipes or bongs is a $1000 fine and three months' jail, and for corporates a $5000 fine and three months' jail.

Police media liaison officer Sarah Martin said they would not launch campaigns to enforce the law, but would investigate complaints.

- NZPA