The use of e-cigarettes has become common in recent years, especially among New Zealand teenagers. The rate of teen vaping has rapidly increased to the point where some refer to it as a public health crisis and an epidemic.

Originally intended as an alternative to smoking, vaping companies are actively targeting youth with enticing marketing tactics.

One in 10 young people aged 14 to 15 vape daily, with that number rising to 1 in 5 among the Māori population, according to data from the New Zealand Health Survey released in December 2023. Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ Chief Executive Ms Letitia Harding says doubling of daily vaping among teenagers is nothing short of a public health crisis that demands urgent attention.

“I am appalled and deeply concerned with these figures. What we are witnessing is an epidemic that needs immediate attention to address such alarming statistics.”

The proliferation of vape stores, particularly in lower socio-economic and disadvantaged areas, contributes to the accessibility and popularity of vaping. There are currently more than 1,500 Specialist Vaping Retailers across Aotearoa. In comparison, there are only 1,200 petrol stations in the entire country.

The addictive nature of nicotine-containing vapes, coupled with enticing marketing, flavours, and packaging, poses a significant challenge for schools as students become addicted to these products.

In May 2022, Te Hā Ora Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ launched a programme to deliver vaping education workshops to schools across the country - the first of its kind.

The programme arms young people with information and tools to make informed choices about vaping, including understanding the harms. The Acorn Foundation will be funding Te Hā Ora’s ability to offer 24 workshops to schools around the Bay of Plenty region. This initiative will offer thousands of young people the tools they need to break habits or avoid creating them. Nicotine addiction can have immense consequences on both health and financial capability.

We know that nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on the planet. The best way to deal with addiction is to prevent people from falling into it as early as possible, which makes this intervention critical for the long-term health of our region – both physical and financial.

Te Hā Ora Asthma & Respiratory Foundation NZ Grants and Fundraising Executive Ms Pam Francombe says she was thrilled to learn the Foundation was chosen to receive funding this year.

"This funding will make a significant impact on the lives of young people in the Western Bay of Plenty, and we are excited to share the positive outcomes that your support will enable."

Acorn is pleased to be able to invest in the health of the Bay of Plenty’s rangatahi. Acorn Foundation’s Legacy Giving Manager Campbell Higgins said, “It is a relief to know that vaping education is available for our local school students, thanks to Te Hā Ora. The late Roy & Mary McGowan would have been thrilled that their fund will support this programme.”