Upcoming Changes in New Zealand Vape Regulations: Everything You Need to Know

14 Aug, 2024
Posted by: Zel Jacobs

New Zealand’s vape industry is bracing for another round of significant regulatory changes. Based on recently released cabinet papers, it’s clear that the government is taking a hardline stance on youth vaping while aiming to preserve vaping as a smoking cessation tool.

Key Changes Coming in October 2024

Several new regulations will come into effect on October 1, 2024. These include:

Child-resistant packaging: All vaping devices must have child-resistant mechanisms to prevent accidental use.
Removable batteries: All reusable vaping products must have removable batteries for safety and longevity.

These changes are designed to enhance product safety and reduce the appeal of vaping to young people.

Proposed Changes for 2025

While not yet law, the following changes are proposed for implementation in 2025:

Ban on disposable vapes: A complete ban on disposable vaping products is on the horizon, including single-use pods, tanks, and cartridges. This includes giving away disposable vapes as promotional items.
Stricter retail display rules: Vape products will be subject to stricter display rules, including restrictions on visibility from the street and within stores accessible to minors. Online retailers may also face limitations on product displays. This may into effect on 1 July 2025.
Proximity restrictions: New vape shops will be prohibited from opening within 300 meters of schools, early childhood centers, and marae.
Increased penalties: Non-compliance with these regulations will result in hefty fines for businesses.

Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance

To ensure compliance with these new regulations, the government is introducing significant penalties. These include:

Fines for selling disposable vapes: Businesses found selling or distributing disposable vaping products without reasonable excuse face fines of up to $400,000 for large retailers and $50,000 for smaller retailers.
Penalties for display violations: Breaching retail display restrictions can result in fines of up to $50,000.
Increased penalties for general product display: The penalty for displaying tobacco or vaping products where they shouldn't be has been increased from $10,000 to $50,000.
New infringement fees: Businesses could face $2,000 infringement fees for displaying products or advertisements incorrectly, or for selling disposable vapes.

What This Means for Vape Shop Owners

These changes will undoubtedly impact vape shop operations. It’s crucial to stay informed and adapt to the new regulations to avoid penalties and maintain a compliant business.

Key considerations for vape shop owners include:

Inventory management: Prepare for the ban on disposable vapes by adjusting your product range accordingly.
Store layout: Plan for changes to your store layout to comply with retail display restrictions.
Staff training: Ensure your staff is fully aware of the new regulations and can provide accurate information to customers.
Legal advice: Seek legal advice to understand your obligations and protect your business.

Puffing Kiwi will continue to monitor these developments closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.

It’s important to note that while these changes pose challenges, they also present opportunities for vape shops to differentiate themselves by offering high-quality, compliant products and excellent customer service.