Breathe in the fresh, clean air this Smokefree May

At Fisherman’s Wharf Café in Ohope, the view is picturesque. There’s a quaint old white pier to the left, and yachts moored to the right. Diners sit in the outdoor area and enjoy the beautiful view while breathing in the fresh, clean air.

This fresh, clean air is not only a result of the pleasant surroundings in which the café is set, but also a direct result of owner, Tom Maguire’s decision to introduce a smokefree outdoor dining policy to complement their indoors policy.

“Having sliding doors to the external dining areas meant if someone was smoking outside, it was virtually as if someone was smoking inside. We also feel people expect a smokefree dining experience these days” says Mr Maguire.

Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health, Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service congratulates Mr Maguire for being a leader in working towards a smokefree future for New Zealand. “As part of this year’s Smokefree May we are celebrating the good work being done to reduce the harm caused by tobacco. Tom’s commitment to providing the best environment for his customers is commended and we encourage others to do the same”.

“The introduction of smokefree outdoor dining legislation in other countries has had great results. Not only does smokefree outdoor dining create a more pleasant experience for customers, but it also de-normalises smoking and reduces the exposure of staff and customers to the dangerous effects of second hand smoke. Research also shows that smokefree outdoor spaces support smokers to quit and stay smokefree by reducing social cues to smoke”, says Dr Shoemack.

Smokefree outdoor dining is gaining momentum nationally with Auckland City Council being the first council in New Zealand to introduce a smokefree outdoor dining policy. Aucklanders showed strong community support for smokefree dining, with 76% in favour, and the Auckland Council received over 1300 submissions from the public requesting a smokefree dining bylaw.

“We encourage local councils to follow Auckland’s lead and introduce smokefree outdoor dining policies. We know from examples in Australia that such policies are effective at reducing harm from tobacco, and are well supported by both smokers and non-smokers”, Dr Shoemack said.

If you are interested in making your café or restaurant smokefree visit http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/tobacco_public for more information.

ENDS

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