Quantitative data* shows daily vaping use amongst young people is growing dramatically, but these data sets do not reveal what’s driving the shift.

Myths and misconceptions about vaping are pervasive – from inaccurate horror stories, through to suggestions that vaping is ‘healthy’.

While vaping is not harmless, it is much less harmful than smoking and can be a useful tool for smokers who are trying to quit.

Advertising of vaping products was banned in New Zealand from 11 November 2020. However, before this legislation came into force, vape advertising often targeted young people.

Vaping products cannot be sold to people under the age of 18. Despite this, they are widely available in dairies, supermarkets and specialist vaping stores, which are places often positioned near schools and shopping areas easily accessible by young people.

Vaping has some known side effects like nausea, coughing, and headaches. Vapes are much less harmful than smoking, though – in part because they deliver nicotine in e-liquid. While still addictive, nicotine does not cause cancer. The risks associated with long-term vaping, however, are not yet clear*.

Schools and whānau are doing their best to respond to the challenge. However, approaches which punish or shame rangatahi for vaping fail to address what’s driving the behaviour – and miss the opportunity to help young people develop critical decision-making skills.