Smoking

If no-one in New Zealand smoked, the lives of almost 5000 New Zealanders would be saved every year.

  • Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health – and that of your family and friends.
  • Non-smokers are at risk too – but restrictions on smoking in public areas and workplaces help safeguard their health from the effects of second-hand smoke.

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

In this section

  • Smoking harms nearly every organ and system in the body. Find out what cigarettes are doing to you and your children. Read more
  • You have everything to gain by quitting smoking – it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your health. Find out where you can get help to quit smoking. Read more
  • Smokefree legislation affects schools, early childhood centres, retailers, licensed premises, sports clubs and all employers. Find out about smokefree law and how it applies to you. Read more
  • Links to websites where you can get information on smoking and tobacco, and support to stop smoking. Read more