Most Young People in New Zealand Support Smokefree Measures; Government Bill Repeal May Spark Public

Young people in New Zealand strongly support smokefree measures and have voiced opposition to the government’s plan to repeal smokefree laws. A study shows that most people aged 16-29 support measures such as reducing the number of tobacco retailers and removing nicotine from cigarettes.

According to the latest report from New Zealand media outlet nzdoctor, research shows that young people in New Zealand strongly support smokefree measures, suggesting that the government’s plan to scrap smokefree laws runs counter to public opinion.

The study released today shows that the vast majority of New Zealanders (Aotearoa) aged 16-29 support the 2025 smokefree goal and the three major measures the new government is preparing to abandon.

In the latest briefing from the Center for Health Communication, researchers from the University of Otago presented, for the first time, findings from New Zealand in the ITC Youth and Young Adult Tobacco and Vaping Survey.

Co-author Dr. Jude Ball said the survey found that 78% of young people support a major reduction in the number of tobacco retailers, and 68% support legislation requiring manufacturers to remove nicotine from cigarette products. She said the smokefree generation policy received the strongest support of the three measures, with 79% in favor.

Even among young people who smoke, Dr. Ball said, a majority support these three policies. “This aligns with previous research here and overseas showing that most smokers regret starting and that most want to quit.”

“One in two smoking teenagers said they would reduce or quit if the number of retailers selling cigarette products were significantly reduced,” Dr. Ball said.

Dr. Ball believes the key message government should take from this research is that, regardless of young people’s smoking status, most welcome limits on the availability and addictiveness of cigarettes. “We urge the government to listen to the voices of New Zealanders and keep this world-leading smokefree legislation.”

The ITC survey was conducted in August/September 2023, before the new coalition government took office and before any repeal of smokefree legislation was announced.