Teen vaping refers to the use of electronic cigarettes or other vaping devices by individuals under the age of 18. In New Zealand, it is illegal to sell vaping products to anyone under 18.

Teen vaping is a concern because nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm the developing brain, leading to long-term effects on learning, attention, and memory. Additionally, vaping can lead to the use of other nicotine products, such as cigarettes, and have negative effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health.

According to a 2020 study by Action for Smokefree 2025, 24% of high school students reported using e-cigarettes in the past month. This is a significant increase from previous yearsand highlights the need for continued efforts to address teen vaping.

The consequences of teen vaping in New Zealand can include addiction to nicotine, harm to brain development, and an increased risk of using other nicotine products, such as cigarettes. In addition, underage vaping is a violation of the law. It can result in fines or other legal consequences for both the minor and the vendor who sold the product.

Parents and educators can help prevent teen vaping by educating young people about the risks and consequences of vaping. They can also promote healthy behaviours and alternatives to vaping. They can also monitor their children's behaviour and social media use for signs of vaping or peer pressure to vape. It is equally critical to advocate for policies that restrict vaping product sales and marketing to young people.

The New Zealand government has implemented a range of measures to address teen vaping. These measures include increasing the legal age for purchasing vaping products to 18.They also ban advertising and sponsorship of vaping products and restrict flavoured vaping sales. Education campaigns and resources are also being developed to raise awareness of vaping risks among young people.

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, but it is not without controversy, especially when it comes to teen vaping. In New Zealand, the Ministry of Health is taking steps to combat teen vaping by regulating the sale of e-cigarettes and e-liquids to minors. However, theresponsibility for preventing teen vaping also lies with parents and educators, who need to educate teens about vaping risks.

Yes, teen vaping is a growing problem in New Zealand. According to a survey by Action for Smokefree 2025, about one in four high school students in New Zealand reported using an e-cigarette in the past month.

The long-term health effects of vaping are still unknown, but studies have shown that e-cigarettes can contain harmful chemicals and toxins, including nicotine, which can be highly addictive. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can affect brain development and lead to addiction.

The Ministry of Health has implemented regulations to restrict e-cigarette and e-liquid sales to minors. Retailers are required to ask for identification from anyone that looks under 25. Schools are also encouraged to educate students about vaping risks.

Parents can educate themselves about vaping and have open and honest conversations with their teens about the potential risks. Parents need to create a safe and non-judgmental space for their teens to ask questions and express their concerns.

Educators can educate students about vaping risks and provide accurate information about nicotine addiction harms. Schools can also implement policies that prohibit e-cigarettes on school grounds and provide resources for students who need help quitting.