Police in Bay of Plenty say more people are getting behind the wheel under the influence of nangs

A week ago today, an 18-year-old Rotorua driver was charged with dangerous driving after being seen inhaling from a nitrous oxide balloon on Te Ngae Road.

So-called "nangs" have been identified as a potential contributor in a number of serious and fatal crashes under investigation by Police.

Road Policing Manager Inspector Phil Gillbanks says nitrous oxide can cause euphoria and dissociation - and has no place in someone's system if they're driving.

He says if they black out, they're likely to kill or maim themselves or others.