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2 December 2013

Let’s make Palmy Smokefree

Smokefree/Auahi Kore signs will be appearing in the central city in the next few weeks in support of the City’s Smokefree Policy.

Cafés, retailers and other organisations around The Square and inner city streets are being asked to support the policy, and to show their support by displaying the signage.

Mayor Jono Naylor says while the Council can’t make people stop smoking, it can actively support Palmerston North residents to make the City Smokefree.

The policy will be launched at Georgie Girl in George Street at 1pm today. Owner, Dawn Scrivener pledged to stop smoking earlier this year on World Smokefree Day, but still faces an on-going struggle to achieve this.

“I know how damaging smoking can be, and I really want my store to be on a smokefree street,” she said. “Georgie Girl will be displaying a Smokefree sign and I encourage other retailers to do the same.”

Kelvin Nguwen of The Desert Rose Café on the corner of Cuba and Rangitikei Street has also signed on. “I’ve been in New Zealand for four years and it is clean and green and I want to do my part to ensure it stays clean.”

Coleman Mall retailer, Wendy Newth of Studio 31 has also signed up. “I think people shouldn’t be afraid to speak up about having Smokefree places. Most smokers get it – It’s now time for everyone else to too.”

Cuba Street retailer Petit Fours owner Chelsea Green says for her it was a no brainer. “My shop smells of delicious yummy cakes. The smell of smoke just doesn’t go with that.”

The Smokefree policy streets include Queen Street, King Street, Cuba Street, Coleman Place, George Street, Broadway Avenue (to Princess Street) and The Square. The policy also covers parks, playgrounds, Council buildings, bus stops and events.

Palmerston North City Council developed the Smokefree Policy in partnership with Tobacco Free Central and with help from UCOL students, Alesha Ritson, Amy Bothwell, Kahira Shepherd and Karla Karaitiana who all helped with research and the design of posters and flyers.

Those wanting to join the campaign can do so at the Facebook page: Let’s make Palmy Smokefree.

Palmerston North City Council will undertake an evaluation and review of the policy in mid 2014.
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