The New Zealand government introduced new vaping regulations beginning June 2025. The changes to New Zealand vaping laws affect vaping devices, specifically disposable vapes, retail and online, and also promotions and discounts. It’s important you’re informed and aware of the latest vaping rules, so read our blog for the latest news about NZ vape laws.
The highlights:
- Ban on disposable vapes
- Restrictions on how vaping product is displayed in-store and online websites
- Changes to discounts, promotions, and loyalty programmes
Are Disposable Vapes Getting Banned in NZ?
Yes, disposable vapes will be banned in New Zealand, effective June 17th 2025.
Specifically, this includes vaping devices that:
- 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
If you currently use alt. Nu disposable vapes, you can easily transition to an equivalent alt. Pod Vape, which is available in all the same vape flavours.
Shop Disposable Vapes here or shop Pod Vapes here.
Overview of Recent Legislative Changes to Vaping
New Zealand introduced significant changes to its vaping laws, tightening regulations on both manufacturers and retailers. Key amendments included a ban on disposable vapes, changes to how vapes are displayed both in-store and online, and restrictions on promotions, discounts and loyalty programmes on vapes, cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. These reforms aim to reduce youth access and curb rising youth vaping rates.
From June 17th 2025, the following will change:
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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.
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Online: Websites will no longer be allowed to display vaping products, including product images. Our website will start to look a little different as we gradually implement these changes.
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Promotions, discounts and giveaways: Free product giveaways, discounts and rewards on vaping products will be banned. Our alt. Perks rewards programme is effected by this.
For the average vaper, the new regulations mean if they currently use disposable vapes, they’ll need to transition to pod vaping. The shift underscores New Zealand's commitment to balancing access for smokers transitioning to vaping with social responsibility to ensure people who have never smoked, or vaped before, don’t start now.
Where Can You Purchase Vapes?
Recent changes to New Zealand's vaping rules have introduced stricter regulations for selling vapes. The legal age to buy vapes remains at 18, but new licensing requirements limit the availability of vapes in certain areas, specifically near, early childhood centres, schools and marae. Online sales are still permitted.
Consumers can purchase vapes from specialist vape stores or select general retailers, either in physical outlets or online. A variety of vapes, including e-cigarettes and pod vapes, remain available, but disposable vapes will not be available from June 17th 2025.
Where Can You Vape? Understanding the Restrictions
Under New Zealand vaping laws, vaping is prohibited in public indoor spaces, including restaurants, bars, clubs, casinos, indoor workplaces, and public transport. It is also banned in areas where smoking is restricted, such as near schools, playgrounds, and marae. It is also illegal to vape in a motor vehicle if it's carrying someone under the age of 18. However, vaping is allowed in private homes, designated outdoor areas, and in certain smoking-permitted sections of hospitality venues.
From 17 December 2024 any new specialist vape retailer (SVR) stores will not be able to open within 100 metres of an Early Childcare Education Centre (ECE).
Violating these rules can result in penalties, such as fines. For instance, vaping in a car with someone under 18 years old could lead to an infringement fee of $50 - or a court can give you a fine of up to $100. From 17 December 2024, the fine for selling vapes to a minor has increased from $10,000 to $100,000 for a body corporate, and from $5,000 to $10,000 in any other case.
It’s essential to stay informed about NZ vape laws to avoid unintended violations and stay compliant with the vape ban in public spaces.
Vaping and Travel: What You Need to Know
When it comes to New Zealand vaping rules and public transportation, vaping is prohibited on buses, trains, and planes. Travellers should always check with local laws to confirm whether vaping is allowed in designated areas at stations or airports. When flying, ensure that vapes are packed correctly—vape devices and batteries should be stored in carry-on luggage, while e-liquids over 100ml must go in checked baggage.
Airlines may have their own specific policies, so it’s important to review their rules ahead of time to avoid any issues during your trip. International travellers should research the vaping laws of their destination country, as some nations have strict regulations or outright bans on vapes. To avoid confiscation or penalties, it’s best to pack accordingly and stay informed about NZ vape laws and vape ban rules abroad.
Keeping Updated With New Zealand’s Vaping Rules and Regulations
In this blog, we’ve covered the key updates to New Zealand’s vaping laws, including the June 2025 ban on disposable vapes, restrictions on the display of vapes and e-cigarettes, and changes to loyalty programmes, promotions and discounts on vapes.
It’s essential for vapers to stay compliant with these new rules. As regulations continue to evolve, keeping informed is also crucial. Stay updated by visiting our blog or following news from the Ministry of Health to ensure you are complying with the law and aware of any future changes to New Zealand’s vaping laws.
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