Towards a healthier New Zealand

Towards a healthier New Zealand

The Cancer Society has welcomed the Government’s continuing commitment to a Smokefree New Zealand by 2025. Associate Health Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, who has taken over responsibility for tobacco control since the September election, said the Government remained committed to Smokefree 2025, which would include looking at "new innovative policies".

2013 census data, shows smoking is declining, but it is estimated it will take until at least 2040 (for non-Maori) and 2060 (for Maori) to be Smokefree. By 2025, it is forecast at the current rate, that about 7 per cent of non-Maori and 19 per cent of Maori will still be smoking. The country will be considered Smokefree when fewer than five per cent of the population smokes.

“The prime focus for the Cancer Society is protecting our children from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and we believe early interventions such as Smokefree cars and homes, plain packs and further dramatic hikes in taxes will go a long way to helping people quit,” said Vikki Ambrose, the Society’s Tobacco Control Advisor. “These measures must be coupled with comprehensive support to help people quit.”

“Many Local Bodies around the country are already doing their bit and we see an increasing number of outdoor areas, such as playgrounds and parks, and even some bus stops, being Smokefree. It will be great when more Councils come on board and we look forward to achieving the goal of a Smokefree country where people will enjoy better health.

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