Smokefree and Vapefree Policy

It aims to provide more smokefree and vapefree public spaces and places in our cities. 

No, it is a refresh of the 2015 Policy, covers Napier and Hastings, and was adopted by both Councils in 2022.

This time we’ve made it clearer that the policy includes vapefree spaces. We’ve also introduced smokefree vapefree laneways used by pedestrians in each city.

In brief, the policy covers the following public places:

• Council managed urban parks, sportsgrounds, playgrounds and reserves, excluding beach reserves.
• Within ten metres of public pedestrian entrances to Council offices and Council owned buildings and facilities. For the main entrance to Council offices, the smokefree and vapefree area will include the full forecourt from the public footpath.
• Hastings City centre (CBD mall area)
• New addition: Council managed pedestrian laneways in urban retail areas including future developed Council managed pedestrian laneways.
• Bus stops, including a ten metre perimeter from bus shelters, signs or bus stop markings.
• Areas set up primarily for café or dining purposes on publicly-owned land; and Council owned tables in public areas.

The policy covers:

• Events held at any of Councils’ smokefree and vapefree public places will be smokefree and vapefree
• Public events receiving Council funding will be required to support smokefree and vapefree messages.

Councils across the country have a responsibility for community wellbeing – this policy is one way of contributing to the health and wellbeing of our communities.

The policy demonstrates our support for the national goal of a Smokefree Aotearoa 2025. It also encourages positive role modelling for tamariki/the younger generation by having spaces and places for everyone to enjoy.

The Napier community gave their views on smokefree and vapefree spaces in a 2022 survey. The majority want outdoor dining to be smokefree (75%) or vapefree (70%). Two out of three people want to see outdoor music and sporting events, outdoor areas in town centres, and outside local shops smokefree, and over half want to see these vapefree.

The policy is non-enforceable, it is educative and self-policing and no fines will apply. Councils may take other action in the event of a persistent issue.

We’re encouraging people to get on board to have smokefree and vapefree spaces and places for everyone to enjoy. There are still many other spaces where smoking and vaping are permitted.