The New Zealand government will begin providing free vaping starter kits to adult smokers who want to quit smoking. Associate Health Minister Casey Costello announced on Tuesday that Stop Smoking Services across the country will receive the kits starting next week, with a focus on helping those who have previously tried other cessation methods without success.
Costello emphasized the significant role vaping has played in reducing smoking rates in New Zealand, stating, "The government supports adults switching to vaping because vaping is far less harmful than smoking cigarettes." She also noted that individuals who use quit smoking services are four times more likely to successfully stop smoking compared to those who do not receive support.
The distribution of free vaping starter kits is part of New Zealand's broader initiative to reduce the country's smoking rate to below five percent by the end of 2024. By providing smokers with access to less harmful alternatives and supporting their quit attempts through Stop Smoking Services, the government aims to make significant progress towards this ambitious goal.
The move to offer free vaping kits demonstrates the New Zealand government's commitment to innovative approaches in addressing the public health issue of smoking. As more smokers transition to vaping, the country hopes to see a continued decline in smoking rates and an improvement in overall health outcomes for its citizens.
