Smokefree Law

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Information & resources for:

Schools and early childhood centres

Licensed premises

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Smokefree Law in New Zealand
www.moh.govt.nz/smokefreelaw

On 3 December 2003, an amendment to the Smoke-free Environments Act 1990 was passed. The amendment (the Smoke-free Environments Amendment Act 2003), required, among other things that:

the buildings and grounds of schools and early childhood centres became smokefree from 1 January 2004

licensed premises (bars, restaurants, cafes, sports clubs, casinos) became smokefree indoors from 10 December 2004

other workplaces became smokefree indoors from 10 December 2004 – including offices, factories, warehouses, work canteens and ‘smoko’ rooms

the display of tobacco products in retail outlets was restricted, and a ‘smoking kills’ sign erected near the display from 10 December 2004

herbal smoking products were included in smoking bans

the access of those under 18 years of age to smoking products was further restricted.

Second-hand smoke contains poisonous chemicals such as arsenic, hydrogen cyanide, ammonia and carbon monoxide.

Prior to enactment of the smokefree legislation amendment, around 350 New Zealanders died each year because of exposure to second-hand smoke, and many others became sick. These new requirements are designed to protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke.

These changes have implications for schools and early childhood centres (EECs), retailers, licensed premises, sports clubs and all employers.

This website provides information about the changes affecting each group, how to comply with the legislation, and where to access signage and other resources.

Open Areas calculator
You can use this calculator as a guide to help you determine whether an area is 'open' or 'internal' for the purposes of the Smoke-free Environments Act 1990.

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Page last updated 15 September 2005