The New Zealand government has taken steps to curb youth vaping by implementing new rules to ban most disposable e-cigarettes and enforcing generic flavour descriptions. The ban is set to start in August 2023. Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall announced that all vape devices sold in New Zealand must have removable or replaceable batteries, which will limit the sale of cheap disposable vapes. In addition, the government will mandate generic vape flavour descriptions, such as “berry” instead of “strawberry jelly doughnut”. The aim is to keep vapes as far as possible from children and young people. All new vape shops must be located at least 300 metres away from schools and marae (Māori meeting houses).

Last year, New Zealand’s smoking prevalence hit a record low of 8%, but the rise in daily vape users exceeded the drop in daily smokers. Daily vaping rates among adults increased from 6.2% to 8.3%. The daily vaping prevalence among Year 10 students (aged about 14) tripled from 3.1% in 2019 to 9.6% in 2021. The government aims to prevent young people from starting to vape while also providing vapes as a cessation tool for those who want to give up smoking. The new legislation complements the anti-smoking amendment bill passed in Parliament last December, which bans tobacco sales to anyone born from 2009.

The Risks of Vaping

Vaping is not without its risks. The e-liquids used in e-cigarettes contain harmful chemicals such as nicotine, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds. Nicotine is highly addictive and can harm the developing brains of young people, which can affect memory and concentration. Vaping may also lead to lung damage and respiratory problems.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that e-cigarettes are particularly dangerous for pregnant women, children, and adolescents. E-cigarettes have also been linked to several respiratory infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis, in addition to the risk of addiction. Pregnant women who use e-cigarettes may also have a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies.

Conclusion

By taking these measures, New Zealand aims to limit the number of young people vaping and reduce associated health risks. The new legislation strikes a balance between preventing young people from starting to vape while also allowing access to vapes as a cessation tool.

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