New Zealand Introduces Stricter Vape Regulations to Protect Youth
On September 12, the New Zealand Government announced new amendments to the Smoke-Free Environments and Controlled Products Act (No. 2), introducing a complete ban on disposable vapes, tougher penalties for illegal sales to minors, and stricter controls on vape store locations to reduce youth access to vaping products.
Government Announcement and Objectives
Deputy Minister of Health Casey Costello unveiled the amendments on the government’s official website, emphasizing the Coalition Government’s commitment to curbing youth vaping while maintaining support for adult smokers seeking cessation tools.
- “Too many young people use disposable vapes—they are cheap and easy to get. That’s why we’re banning disposable vape products altogether,” Costello said.
Key Measures in the Amendment
The Amendment (No. 2) introduces four major changes to New Zealand’s smoke-free regulations:
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A total ban on disposable vapes;
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Significantly increased fines for selling vapes to minors;
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Restrictions on vape product visibility in non-specialty stores;
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Distance limits for new specialty vape retailers near schools and preschools.
Heavier Penalties for Illegal Sales
Under the new rules, fines for selling vapes or other controlled products to minors under 18 will rise substantially:
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Individual fines increase from NZD 500 (USD 310) to NZD 1,000 (USD 615);
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Corporate fines rise from NZD 2,000 (USD 1,230) to NZD 100,000 (USD 61,000);
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Retailers could face fines up to NZD 10,000 (USD 6,100) for serious offenses.
These enhanced penalties aim to deter illegal retail practices and hold businesses accountable for underage sales.
Location Restrictions for Vape Retailers
The legislation also sets strict distance requirements for new specialty vape shops:
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Must be at least 100 meters from any preschool education center;
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Must be at least 300 meters from schools or community meeting places.
These rules are designed to limit youth exposure to vape marketing and access points.
Strengthened Enforcement and Oversight
Costello announced that 16 new full-time smoke-free inspectors will be deployed by December to improve enforcement nationwide.
- “For many years, we have lacked the necessary level of enforcement,” she said. “This Bill will ensure we can protect young people from vapes while supporting adults to quit smoking.”
Continued Commitment to a Smokefree 2025
The New Zealand Government reaffirmed its goal of achieving the Smokefree 2025 target.
Costello highlighted that while the focus is on protecting youth, vapes will remain available for adult cessation under regulated conditions.
She encouraged the public to participate in the Select Committee process to ensure practical and balanced implementation.
Prime Minister’s Statement
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon echoed support for the amendments on the social media platform X, stating:
- “We are getting tougher on youth smoking vapes. We have just enacted legislation that bans all disposable vape products and imposes tougher penalties for underage sales.”
