Hastings and Napier unite for a healthier Hawke's Bay with Smokefree and Vapefree Policy

Published: 1 March 2024

Hastings District and Napier City Councils are launching a joint education and marketing campaign to support their revised Smokefree and Vapefree Policy. This initiative aims to create healthier public spaces and reduce the impact of smoking, vaping, and tobacco use in Hawke's Bay.

From now through until World Smokefree Day on 31st May, the public can expect to see the rollout of new smokefree/vapefree signage across the councils’ public spaces. The policy, adopted by both Councils in August 2022, aligns with their shared responsibility to promote community wellbeing through improved social, economic, environmental, and cultural outcomes.

Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst emphasises the policy's importance, stating: "This initiative marks a significant step forward in improving community health. We aim to support the Smokefree Hawke’s Bay 2025 Strategy, reducing smoking and vaping, particularly among our youth."

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise joins this commitment, hoping it will foster positive change in the community. “This policy is an important way for councils to contribute to the health and wellbeing of our communities,” Mayor Wise says. “It encourages positive role modelling for tamariki so everyone can enjoy our public spaces and places.”

The policy replaces the 2015 policy and covers various public places, including parks, sportsgrounds, playgrounds, reserves, entrances to council offices and facilities, bus stops, and dining areas on publicly-owned land. Pedestrian laneways are also included for the first time in the latest policy. All events at these locations must be smokefree and vapefree. 

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora in Hawke’s Bay supports the councils’ joint policy to encourage better health outcomes in our community. 

The councils are also encouraging businesses and organisations to implement smokefree and vapefree areas, by providing free signage and promotional materials. 

Scheduled for a comprehensive review every three years, the policy's effectiveness will be assessed, and regulatory adjustments considered if necessary. 

Ministry of Health data reveals tobacco use remains the most significant cause of preventable health issues and premature death in New Zealand and disproportionately affects Māori and Pacific communities.

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