The Latest Vaping Regulations in New Zealand

Sep 4, 2023

Table of Contents

From 21^st September 2023, new vaping regulations will come into force. These regulations will introduce a maximum nicotine limit of 20mg/mL (Disposables) and 28.5mg/mL (Closed Pods), revamped flavour names, removable batteries, and child-safety mechanisms.

1. Vape Nicotine Limit: One significant change for the Disposables is the reduction of nicotine strength to 20mg/mL, such as RELX MagicGo 4000 and MagicGo 8000i disposable vapes. Additionally, Closed Pods like RELX reduced in nicotine strength from 35+mg/mL to 28.5mg/mL, such as Infinity2 vape pods.

2. Vape Flavour Names: Vaping products can only feature descriptive, non-attractive flavour names, discouraging misleading marketing that might target Non-Smokers.

For example: Names like ‘cotton candy’ and ‘strawberry jelly donut’ will be prohibited. Only generic names which accurately describe the flavours can be used, such as ‘orange’ or ‘berry’.

3. Removable Batteries and Child Lock Functions: All vaping devices must have detachable batteries and incorporate child safety features like buttons to increase the difficulty of operation. This is to prevent unintended use and access by minors (Under 18).

From 21^st Dec 2023

We are now only selling the compliant disposable vaping products meeting safety standards (nicotine limits, removable batteries, child safety and product labelling).

From 21^st March 2024

All vaping products with cartoon or toy images on the packaging are not allowed and must use permitted flavour descriptions.

From 1^st October 2024

All reusable vaping products are requied to have removable batteries and child safety mechanisms. We are only able to offer compliant reusable vaping products that meet safety standards, including removable batteries, and child safety features.

Proposed Changes for 2025

Though not yet enacted, the following regulatory changes are proposed for 2025:

Ban on Disposable Vapes: A complete ban on disposable vaping products is expected, covering single-use pods, tanks, and cartridges. This also includes prohibiting their use as promotional giveaways.
Stricter Retail Display Rules: Vape products will be subject to more stringent display regulations, including restrictions on visibility both from the street and within stores accessible to minors. Online retailers may also face display limitations. These changes may take effect on 1 July 2025.
Proximity Restrictions: New vape shops will be barred from opening within 300 meters of schools, early childhood centers, and marae.
Increased Penalties: Businesses failing to comply with these regulations will face substantial fines.

With the government shifting toward these changes, RELX supports these changes and ensure that our new products will be fully compliance with the updated regulations.

At RELX, we're dedicated to assisting our consumers as they navigate these regulatory changes. We encourage all RELXers to stay tuned for our upcoming new products that will be fully compliant to the new regulations.

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