Vaping Laws: Where Can You Vape in New Zealand?

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Are you getting mixed messages about where you can and can’t vape in NZ? A recent amendment to the Smoke-free Act 1990 has seen some strict vaping regulations come into place. This includes policy around vaping in public and private areas. Keep reading for a rundown on these rules and more tips on vaping etiquette!

 The Smoke-free Act Update

On the 11th of November 2020, an update to the Smoke-free Environments Act 1990 saw it become the Smoke-free Environments and Regulated Products (Vaping) Amendment Act. This means that vaping is now also prohibited in areas where smoking is prohibited.

Take a look below at some specific locations you may be wondering about.

The Workplace:

This update to the act has seen vaping become prohibited in all internal areas of every workplace. However, employers should still support employees who are vaping to quit smoking! Creating designated vaping areas outside the workplace is a great way to do this, so your team members can stay on track with their quit-smoking goals.

Restaurants & Bars:

Vaping indoors at hospitality venues including restaurants, bars, and cafes is now prohibited under the Smoke-free Act. However, these places may have an outdoor area where vaping is permitted, though this is at the discretion of each venue. Before taking a puff in any outdoor hospitality space, look for signs with vaping rules outlined or be sure to check with a staff member if vaping is allowed.

Schools & University Facilities:

Vaping is banned on school grounds in New Zealand, including early childhood facilities. Vaping is also banned wherever there is a smoke-free policy, which applies to most universities and higher education providers around the country. These places will have smoke-free signs displayed outdoors, making it easy to identify if you can vape on the premises or not.

In the Car:

From November 2021, vaping and smoking will be banned in cars that are carrying people under 18 years old.

You will still be able to vape in a vehicle if there are no minors present, but we recommend stopping your car to vape for safety reasons. If you do decide to vape while driving, make sure the windows are down to prevent any cloud build-up that could impair your vision.

On a Plane:

While you can carry a vape onto a plane, using your device while onboard is prohibited. This is a no-brainer, as aircraft are confined spaces with no fresh airflow. Get your vape fix before boarding and consider a nicotine patch or gum to tide you over on longer flights.

 More tips for being a considerate vaper

Stick to the rules above. Vaping is a critical tool for those wanting to quit smoking, so vapers need to be respectful of others and keep a good name for all vape users out there.

Don’t vape in crowds, such as on busy streets. Some people with health issues may not be able to tolerate second-hand vapour, so being considerate of this is important.

Always ask! If you are in a private place and aren’t sure if you can vape, one simple question is a courteous way to find out if anyone isn’t comfortable with vaping. You’ll then know who to be mindful of when enjoying your flavourful clouds.


Your number-one source for vaping news

As part of the vaping community, the team at NZVAPOR strive to bring you all the important info you need to vape safely. We also stock all the gear you need for a great vaping experience! Check out our wide range of juice and e-cigarettes in NZ online or in-store today!

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