New Zealand: Auckland Asks for Smoke-free Feedback

Source from:  NZCity (nz)  05/20/2013

Auckland is one step closer to having smoke-free parks, reserves, sports fields and playgrounds with the council asking for community feedback on its smoke-free policy.

Auckland Council presented its draft smoke-free policy on Tuesday and is calling on local groups and community members to contribute to the final draft.

The final draft will be presented to the Regional Development and Operations Committee on July 24.

The policy will be implemented in three stages, with the first banning smoking at stadiums, swimming pools, playgrounds, skate parks, sports fields and all parks and reserves this year.

Bus stations, urban centres, beaches, civic squares and outdoor dining areas on footpaths will be smoke-free by 2018.

"The council is committed to a smoke-free Auckland to create a healthier, more enjoyable city for all of Auckland's residents and visitors," councillor Sandra Coney said.

The policy relies on social pressure to encourage members of the public to comply with the new rules. Enditem