Wellington: New Zealand's daily smoking rate has decreased to 6.8 percent, down from 6.9 percent the previous year, indicating progress over recent years.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the latest New Zealand Health Survey, released on Wednesday, highlights that the smoking rate among New Zealand adults has significantly decreased from 16.4 percent in the 2011/12 survey to the current figure.

The 2024/25 survey, based on data collected between July 2024 and July 2025, reveals that the number of daily smokers has nearly halved since 2011/12, with approximately 278,000 fewer daily smokers in New Zealand. Additionally, there has been a notable decline in second-hand smoke exposure, with only 1.3 percent of children exposed to such smoke inside the home in 2024/25, compared to 3.3 percent in 2015/16.

The survey also highlights a reduction in youth smoking rates. The daily smoking rate for young individuals aged 15-24 has dropped to 3.2 percent, a significant decrease from 19.2 percent at the start of the survey 13 years ago. However, the prevalence of daily vaping has increased substantially, reaching 11.7 percent in 2024/25 compared to 0.9 percent in 2015/16.

Efforts continue towards achieving the Smokefree 2025 goal by ensuring that smokers have access to practical tools and support to quit smoking. This includes the availability of less harmful alternatives like vapes. Associate Health Minister Casey Costello emphasized that the current challenge lies in assisting older, long-term smokers to quit.