"If they can't get their hands on something else, money for alcohol, access to cannabis or other things - this is something that can be got off the shelf."
Her comments follow the death of a 17-year-old teenager at the weekend, who might have inhaled butane.
The Chief Coroner is conducting a review into recreational use of the gas.
Consideration is also being given to restricting its availability to young people.
Dr Leo Schep from the National Poisons Centre said huffing aerosol products - which commonly contain propane and butane - was like playing russian roulette.
"You've got sudden sniffing death, you've got the issue of frostbite and then you've got this explosive mixture."
Users could suffer frostbite around their mouth when inhaling the gas. Dr Schep said those inhaling butane were often unaware it could lead to death, even after taking it once.
"It just basically slows the heart down [and] it's a serious risk.
"Playing with LPG is a bit like russian roulette - it's stupid."
NZ Drug Foundation executive director Ross Bell said butane was "fast acting, unique and you can overdose pretty quick".
Chief Coroner Judge Neil MacLean launched a review into butane huffing after two Dunedin youths suffered critical injuries when an LPG gas cylinder they were believed to have been sniffing from exploded last month.
Mr Bell said the research had identified up to 60 butane-related deaths since 2000, nearly all of which were young males aged under 24 years.
"It's easier to get your hands on this than it is alcohol or cannabis."
Gas fears
Signs your child may be huffing:
Chemical smell on their breath or clothing.
Empty canisters in their room or where they hang out.
Mood swings or a general change in behaviour not explained by normal teenage behaviour.
Changes in sleeping or eating patterns.
Mixing with a new group of friends, especially if they hang out in secluded places.
Source: National Poisons Centre
