Money

New Zealand will phase out smoking to citizens born after 2008

Published

3 years ago

December 14, 2022

Costa Haritos

New Zealand has become the first country to legislate a tobacco ban for young people

Wellington lawmakers have passed legislation, which will see a near-complete ban of tobacco products.

It means citizens born after 2008 will not be able to purchase cigarettes or tobacco products.

New Zealand’s Health Minister Ayesha Verrall said the legislation is a step towards a smoke-free future.

“Thousands of people will live longer, healthier lives, and the health system will be NZ$5 billion better off from not needing to treat the illnesses caused by smoking.”

Around 8 per cent of New Zealanders currently smoke—the lowest figure in the nation’s history.

“It means nicotine will be reduced to non-addictive levels and communities will be free from the proliferation and clustering of retailers who target and sell tobacco products in certain areas,” Dr Verrall said.

The legislation seeks to decrease the number of younger people purchasing tobacco products.

It means 40-year-olds will not be able to buy cigarettes by 2040.

Related Topics:

Up Next

Tesla shares slump as Elon Musk’s private jet no longer tracked on Twitter

Don't Miss

Singapore man sentenced for exporting drinks to North Korea

Costa Haritos

Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.