Latest news with #HāpaiteHauora
Scoop
12-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Signs Of Progress In Tobacco Control Sector: New Bill And Council Action Offer Hope
Amid recent setbacks in New Zealand's Smokefree efforts, two new developments bring fresh momentum to tobacco harm reduction that have renewed hope in our goals for a healthier Aotearoa. Health spokesperson Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall has launched the Tobacco Transparency Bill, aimed at stopping tobacco industry lobbying in health policy. "Around the world, tobacco companies have a long history of influencing and weakening health policies to better suit their bottom line. This Bill will address those influences and help us protect people's health…," said Dr Verrall.[1] This Bill follows growing calls for stronger lobbying regulations in New Zealand politics. There is a pressing need for greater transparency and accountability, especially among those whose decisions directly impact public health outcomes. If passed, the Tobacco Transparency Bill would help the government understand its duties under international law and could lead to stronger rules around emerging nicotine products. Similarly, Far North District Council votes to develop a Smokefree/Vapefree policy for public spaces. The council's decision follows a new study linking vaping to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), adding urgency to calls for regulation.[2] These developments offer timely encouragement for Smokefree and Vapefree advocates across Aotearoa as we mark World Smokefree May. Jasmine Graham, National Tobacco Control Manager at Hāpai te Hauora says, "While major challenges remain, these steps offer hope that momentum toward a healthier, smokefree Aotearoa is not lost." Notes: [2] "Far North Council Moves to Adopt Smokefree and Vape-free Policy," NZ Herald, last modified May 8, 2025,
Scoop
01-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Whānau Stop Smoking For World Smokefree May – That's Us
Press Release – Hapai Te Hauora To launch the campaign, promotional videos from Stop Smoking Services are being rolled out nationwide and will be screened in hospitals and GP waiting rooms. Whānau across Aotearoa are beginning their Smokefree journey this May as part of the That's Us campaign, led by Hāpai te Hauora. The campaign encourages whānau to give up smoking for the month of May with the support of their local Stop Smoking Service. To launch the campaign, promotional videos from Stop Smoking Services are being rolled out nationwide and will be screened in hospitals and GP waiting rooms. Jasmine Graham, National Tobacco Control Manager at Hāpai te Hauora, says the support of trained Smokefree practitioners is a critical success factor in quitting. 'Whānau who are trying to quit are most successful when supported by a Smokefree practitioner, where they can access Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and tailored support. It's so important that whānau know these services are available to them in their communities.' That's Us activations are taking place around the motu to promote Smokefree messages and remind whānau that it's always the right time to begin their Smokefree journey. 'It takes an average of seven attempts to quit smoking. Our message is simply, even if you've tried before, give it another go. This time, you've got the whole nation behind you,' says Graham. Smoking-related illnesses remain the leading cause of preventable death in Aotearoa. The time to act is now – Smokefree 2025.
Scoop
30-04-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Whānau Stop Smoking For World Smokefree May - That's Us
Whānau across Aotearoa are beginning their Smokefree journey this May as part of the That's Us campaign, led by Hāpai te Hauora. The campaign encourages whānau to give up smoking for the month of May with the support of their local Stop Smoking Service. To launch the campaign, promotional videos from Stop Smoking Services are being rolled out nationwide and will be screened in hospitals and GP waiting rooms. Jasmine Graham, National Tobacco Control Manager at Hāpai te Hauora, says the support of trained Smokefree practitioners is a critical success factor in quitting. "Whānau who are trying to quit are most successful when supported by a Smokefree practitioner, where they can access Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and tailored support. It's so important that whānau know these services are available to them in their communities." That's Us activations are taking place around the motu to promote Smokefree messages and remind whānau that it's always the right time to begin their Smokefree journey. "It takes an average of seven attempts to quit smoking. Our message is simply, even if you've tried before, give it another go. This time, you've got the whole nation behind you," says Graham. Smoking-related illnesses remain the leading cause of preventable death in Aotearoa. The time to act is now - Smokefree 2025. To join the movement and access support, visit or check out the @worldsmokefreemaynz Instagram page
