The Quiet Revolution in New Zealand’s War on Smoking
July 15, 2026 by weareinnovation.global
The Quiet Revolution in New Zealand’s War on Smoking
New Zealand has successfully reduced smoking rates through innovative tobacco control measures, including regulating access to vaping products. This approach, endorsed by health authorities, led to a rapid decline in smoking rates, especially among indigenous communities and youth. The country's experience shows that harm reduction policies can complement traditional tobacco control efforts and accelerate progress towards a smoke-free future. The success of these measures highlights the importance of evidence-based regulation and a focus on reducing tobacco-related harms, particularly among disadvantaged populations. New Zealand's approach serves as a valuable example of how innovation can drive positive change in public health.
8.60% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 364,000 current smokers in New Zealand.
SOURCE: GSTHR
