Read articles from New Zealand

April 08, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

Growing controversy is emerging over how recent studies linking vaping to cancer are being reported and interpreted in the media. Advocacy group CAPHRA argues that coverage has amplified alarming conclusions without adequately reflecting scientific uncertainty or the broader context of relative risk. The discussion centres on a high-profile review suggesting that e-cigarettes may be carcinogenic, based largely on laboratory data, animal studies and biomarkers rather than long-term human evidence. CAPHRA emphasises that the key issue is not whether vaping is risk-free, but whether public communication accurately conveys that it is generally considered less harmful than smoking. Concerns are being raised that overstated or decontextualised reporting could mislead the public and discourage smokers from switching to lower-risk alternatives. The debate highlights a broader challenge in public health messaging: balancing precaution with proportional, evidence-based communication as research on newer nicotine products continues to evolve.

March 25, 2026 by filtermag.org

The IMF emphasizes risk-proportionate taxation on nicotine, alcohol, and sugar products to align with harm caused, challenging current tax policies. Economist Christoph B. Rosenberg and tax expert Marius Van Oordt discuss the need to adapt taxes based on harm levels of new products like vapes, emphasizing the importance of combining tax and health data for policymaking. The article points out the success of different tax strategies in countries like New Zealand and the negative impact of misaligned taxes in places like India and Ireland. The IMF's support for harm reduction advocates is seen as influential in shaping healthier societies.

March 23, 2026 by youtube.com

I discuss Australia's approach to e-cigarettes, which essentially limits them to prescription-only. I give 5 reasons why this is a problematic approach; how this overly restrictive regulation has created a violent illicit market; and compare how Australia has fared vs. New Zealand which embraces harm reduction with e-cigarettes.

March 23, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

CAPHRA warns that New Zealand could repeat Australia’s illicit tobacco crisis if it relies too much on restrictions, high prices, and enforcement. The concern follows reports that tobacco smuggling in New Zealand is becoming more organised and large-scale. Officials fear this could lead to gang-related violence similar to what has been seen in Australia. CAPHRA’s Executive Coordinator, Nancy Loucas, emphasized that Australia should be seen as a warning rather than a model. She argued that limiting access to safer nicotine alternatives can push consumers toward illegal markets controlled by criminal networks.

February 04, 2026 by waateanews.com

Medsafe approved Aotearoa's first medically endorsed quit-vaping product, recognizing vaping addiction as a health issue. The product targets high-frequency nicotine exposure associated with vaping and facilitates controlled nicotine reduction. The Foundation highlights accessibility concerns, urging wider availability and affordability, especially for youth. They emphasize the product as part of a holistic approach to public health, underscoring the need for education, regulation, and prevention.

February 04, 2026 by waateanews.com

Medsafe approved Aotearoa's first medically endorsed quit-vaping product, recognizing vaping addiction as a health issue. The product targets high-frequency nicotine exposure associated with vaping and facilitates controlled nicotine reduction. The Foundation highlights accessibility concerns, urging wider availability and affordability, especially for youth. They emphasize the product as part of a holistic approach to public health, underscoring the need for education, regulation, and prevention.

January 29, 2026 by filtermag.org

Youth vaping is used to oppose adult access to nicotine vapes, though the issue is often exaggerated. New Zealand has successfully reduced youth vaping rates by implementing strict regulations without hindering harm reduction. The country's approach includes penalties for selling to minors and limiting marketing tactics. New Zealand's success in reducing smoking and youth vaping challenges misinformation and fear-mongering. In contrast, Australia's stringent vape restrictions have not yielded the same public health benefits. While New Zealand has made significant progress, challenges remain, especially among indigenous Māori youth.

January 19, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) delivered a clear message to the Australian Senate: Australia’s illegal tobacco crisis is the result of failed policy, not weak enforcement, and no amount of additional resources will fix a problem created by prohibition. In its submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee’s inquiry into the illegal tobacco market, CAPHRA warned that organised crime has taken control of a black market worth around A$4 billion. This market has been driven by policies that removed legal access to safer nicotine products while consumer demand remained unchanged.

December 10, 2025 by theconversation.com

The New Zealand government failed to achieve the smokefree goal, with 6.8% of adults smoking daily. Tobacco remains available with disparities, especially among Māori smokers at 15%. Vaping is popular among youth, with 13.6% of 15-17-year-olds vaping daily, raising addiction concerns. Oral nicotine pouches are proposed, but health officials doubt their effectiveness as cessation aids and warn of health risks, addiction, and youth appeal. Introduction of such products may worsen nicotine addiction issues, contradicting public health goals. Evidence is lacking on their benefits, safety, and impact on youth. The government’s focus should be on reducing smoking and addiction, not introducing potentially harmful alternatives.

December 04, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello was questioned about the government's plan to permit oral nicotine products, despite denying ties to the tobacco industry. Costello emphasized harm reduction and safety precautions to prevent youth access. Labour's Dr. Ayesha Verrall cautioned against potential new addictions in youths, urging Costello to follow expert advice before introducing the products. Public health researcher Dr. Jude Ball highlighted the lack of evidence supporting oral nicotine products for smoking cessation and warned about tobacco companies promoting youth consumption. Costello is still reviewing recommendations on the matter.