Latest Tobacco Controlled Purchase Operation in Northland brings a disappointing result.
This week, Smoke-free Enforcement Officers at Northland District Health Board conducted a Controlled Purchase Operation
(CPO) at Far North tobacco retailers and are very disappointed with the result.
The operation resulted in three sales from the 13 Far North tobacco retailers’ tested by the smoke-free enforcement
staff.
Jo Dones, Smoke-free Enforcement Officer for Northland DHB said, “This is a very disappointing result from the 13
premises tested.
“These sales should not be occurring. Retailers are aware that selling tobacco to our children is a breach of the
Smoke-free Environments Act 1990, (the Act). If they look under 25 years of age, ask for photo identification. No photo
identification, no sale. It really is that simple. This is about protecting our young people from the harmful and
addictive effects of tobacco which ultimately causes early death in 50 percent of smokers.”
CPO’s will continue to be conducted randomly during the year, as required by the Ministry of Health, to ensure
compliance with the Act.
The maximum fine for selling to minors is up to $2,000. Details regarding those retailers who sold to a minor during the
CPO will be forwarded to the Ministry of Health for a decision on further action.
Any retailers requiring assistance with staff training and information can contact Smokefree
Enforcement Officers, at Northland District Health Board (09) 430 4100.
June 2018 Far North Operation statistics:
13 Tobacco Retailers visited in Ahipara, Kaitaia and Awanui – THREE SALES
-Ends-