Why New Zealand failed to reach its Smokefree 2025 target
November 28, 2025 by rnz.co.nz
Why New Zealand failed to reach its Smokefree 2025 target
New Zealand is struggling to meet its Smokefree 2025 target as smoking rates decline unevenly among different demographics. Despite progress, deep inequities persist, particularly affecting Māori and Pasifika populations. Political changes and the repeal of key tobacco control measures have hindered achieving the goal. Experts suggest shifting the aim to Smokefree 2030 and expanding regulations to include nicotine-free products. However, government policies are not keeping pace with new, addictive tobacco industry products targeting youth. Maintaining the focus on reducing smoking rates, reinstating scrapped measures, and implementing stricter regulations are crucial steps towards a smoke-free future.
8.60% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 364,000 current smokers in New Zealand.
SOURCE: GSTHR
