13 Dec 2013

Survey shows fewer New Zealanders smoking

12:15 pm on 13 December 2013

An annual health survey confirms Census figures showing the number of people who smoke is declining.

The results, revealed in the New Zealand Health Survey, and published by the Health Ministry, shows a drop from 17.8% last year to 15.5% this year.

The results are similar to this year's census result of 15.1%.

Chairperson of Smokefree Coalition Dr Jan Pearson says the decline means a target of a smoke-free New Zealand by 2025 is achievable.

She says more needs to be done to reduce smoking among Maori and Pacific people.

The survey has an annual sample size of about 13,000 adults and 4500 young people.