Parents Protest Vape Shop Opening Near West Auckland School
The opening of a new vape shop near a school in West Auckland has sparked outrage among parents, resulting in protests and labeling it a “horrifying” addition to the community. The concerned parents from Parakai School believe that vaping poses a growing health risk to their children and argue that the presence of a vape store sends the wrong message to students.
Located just 450 meters from the school’s main gate, the new store is in close proximity to the back gate, which is frequently used by students. This close proximity has further fueled the parents’ concerns and led to their strong opposition. Principal Yolanda Choromanski expressed dismay, emphasizing the impact of having a vape shop next to the school.
The sentiment expressed by the parents and school board members is echoed by Health Minister Ayesha Verrall, who considers the presence of such stores near schools as “morally reprehensible.” Vape-Free Kids NZ, an advocacy group, believes that this particular store is one of several attempting to establish themselves close to schools before new regulations come into effect.
These regulations, currently being finalized by the government, would require specialist vape stores to be at least 300 meters away from schools and marae (Māori meeting grounds). However, critics argue that this restriction alone would not sufficiently protect children from exposure to vaping, as other retailers such as dairies, supermarkets, and petrol stations would still be able to sell vape products.
The owner of the Parakai store has expressed willingness to address the parents’ concerns. He has made adjustments to signage and taken measures to obscure the products from view. The Vaping Industry Association supports the proposed regulations regarding distances from schools, emphasizing that specialist vape stores are strictly R-18 environments. The association also denies claims that retailers are rushing to open stores before the regulations take effect.
In a separate development, the government has announced further measures to regulate vaping. These include banning most disposable vapes, removing appealing names from vape flavors, and implementing a prohibition on new stores opening within 300 meters of schools or marae.
The Ministry of Health has indicated that the amended regulations will be published in August 2023. Following the Cabinet’s decision, more information will be provided, including implementation timelines and requirements for regulated parties. The goal is to enact the regulations promptly, ensuring that new specialist vape retailers are prohibited from operating near schools and marae.
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