The New Zealand Government has introduced significant amendments to the Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Act 1990 in an effort to curb youth vaping. These changes include stricter regulations on advertising, retail visibility, penalties for selling to minors, and a complete ban on disposable vapes. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes and how they will impact the vaping industry.
The highlights:
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- Disposable vape ban
- Limitations on how vaping products are displayed in-store and online
- Changes to promotions, discounts, and rewards programmes
Are disposable vapes banned in NZ?
Yes. A ban on disposable vaping devices comes into effect on June 17th 2025.
Specifically, this includes vaping devices that:
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- cannot be refilled by the user by filling the device with a vaping substance; or
- cannot be refilled by the user by replacing a changeable pod, cartridge, or similar container; or
- cannot be recharged by the user
Pod-style vaping devices can still be sold. A pod-style vaping device is where the device is refilled by swapping out a prefilled pod or refillable cartridge. These devices are not included in the ban.
If you currently use an alt., Bud, or solo disposable vape, we recommend transitioning to their equivalent pod vape such as alt. Pods, Bud Pods, or solo Pods. Alternatively, try a new experience with solo MAX or Flux Pods.
Overview of Changes to NZ Vaping Regulations
In addition to the ban on disposable vapes, the Ministry of Health has introduced new measures that will become effective on June 17th, 2025.
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- In-store: Vaping devices, products, and packaging may no longer be displayed by General Retailers. This means products might be under the counter or inside a closed-door cabinet. Specialist Vape Retailers, such as VAPO, must ensure these items are not visible from outside their stores but can display the product. SVRs may look slightly different, with some adopting window film or new store layouts.
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Online: Websites will no longer be allowed to display vaping products, including product images. As we work to comply, expect to see changes to our website over the coming months.
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Online: Websites will no longer be allowed to display vaping products, including product images. As we work to comply, expect to see changes to our website over the coming months.
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- Promotions, discounts and giveaways: Free product giveaways, discounts and rewards on vaping products will be banned.
VAPO Club Loyalty Programme
The latest vape laws also affect loyalty programmes, so changes to VAPO Club will be coming.
We'll give you advanced notice of the changes once they are finalised. Until then, you can continue to collect and redeem your Vapoints as usual.
Where Can You Purchase Vapes?
New Zealand has recently tightened its vaping regulations, imposing stricter rules on sales. While the legal purchasing age remains 18, new licensing requirements restrict the sale of vapes in specific areas, such as near early childhood education centres, schools, and marae. However, online sales are still allowed.
Vapes can be purchased from specialist vape stores or a limited number of general retailers, both in physical locations and online.
FIND A VAPE SHOP NEAR YOU HERE
Keep Updated with the Latest Vaping Rules and Vape Laws in New Zealand
We've outlined the key updates to New Zealand’s vaping regulations, including the June 2025 ban on disposable vapes, restrictions on how vapes are displayed online and in-store and changes to promotions and rewards programmes.
Staying compliant with these new rules is essential for vapers in NZ. As regulations continue to evolve, staying informed is equally important. Keep up to date by regularly visiting our blog or following updates from the Ministry of Health to ensure you comply with the law and are aware of any future changes to New Zealand’s vaping regulations.
Need Help?
Check out VAPO's Help Centre here for more information and to contact us.
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