Vape Law New Zealand 2024
In 2024, the New Zealand government introduced changes to e-cigarette laws and regulations. Key updates include adjustments to nicotine content in disposable and pre-filled (closed) vapes, the implementation of child safety mechanisms, restrictions on removable or rechargeable batteries, and new rules for flavour naming.
VapePenZone will guide you through the key changes to New Zealand’s new vape laws and regulations.
Disposables:
As of December 21, 2023, all disposable vapes and pre-filled (closed pod) vapes sold in New Zealand must:
- Be equipped with removable batteries and include a child safety mechanism.
- Comply with flavour name restrictions, using only 1 or 2 flavour names specified in the Regulations.
- Contain no more than 20mg/ml (2%) nicotine strength.
Compliant Disposable Vapes
- Removable Battery
- Child Lock Mechanism
- 20mg/ml Nicotine Strength
Compliant E-liquids
- 28.5mg/ml Nicotine Strength
- New Flavour Name
E-liquids / E-juices:
Effective from March 21, 2024, all e-liquids / e-juices must fully comply with the vaping regulations, which include:
- A nicotine concentration limit of 28.5mg/ml (~3% strength).
- Flavour names consisting of no more than two words, selected from the approved list provided by the Ministry of Health.
Compliant Vaping Products
- Child Lock Mechanism
- Removable Battery
- 28.5mg/ml Nicotine Strength
All Vaping Products
Effective from March 21, 2024, all vaping products, including reusable devices and pre-filled pod systems, sold in New Zealand must meet the following requirements:
- Include a child safety mechanism.
- Be equipped with a removable battery.
- Contain a nicotine concentraion not exceeding 28.5mg/ml (~3% strength).
Key Terms and Changes in New Vape Laws NZ Explained
What is a removable battery?
A removable battery means a battery that can be inspected, removed, and replaced using only a screwdriver, without damaging the battery or device.
What is child-safety mechanisms?
The vaping device requires at least two simultaneous or five consecutive operations to activate, and it automatically deactivates within 10 minutes of the last use.
How do nicotine concentration limits impact vapers and smokers?
The new regulations will limit the maximum nicotine concentration in e-liquids to 28.5 mg/ml (approximately 3%). This may initially present challenges for vapers accustomed to higher nicotine levels in fully satisfying their cravings.
On the positive side, nicotine concentration limits can help reduce smokers’ reliance on high nicotine salts, supporting harm reduction efforts.
What are the packaging and labelling requirements for vaping products in NZ?
The 2023 vaping regulation amendments prohibit the use of cartoons or toys on vaping and smokeless tobacco products. While flavour descriptions are allowed, features resembling food or cosmetics are banned.
Additionally, container labels must list vaping substance ingredients and quantities.
Significant Effects On Vapers / Smokers
- Nicotine Strength Limits: Effective from December 21, 2023, disposable vapes with a nicotine strength exceeding 20mg/ml (2%), including those with nicotine strengths of 30mg, 40mg, or 50mg (3%, 4%, or 5%), will be discontinued. Vapers reliant on high nicotine salts may experience dissatisfaction or seek alternative products.
- Increased Product Costs: In accordance with the regulations, vaping products must not be distributed or supplied for free or at a reduced price. Compliance with these requirements may result in higher prices for consumers seeking to transition from smoking to vaping.
- Potential Access Issues: New restrictions on vape shop locations, such as proximity rules to schools and early childhood centers, could make access to vape products more difficult.
- Ban on Disposable Vapes (Upcoming): The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Act 1990 will prohibit the import, manufacture, sale, and supply of disposable vapes. This measure is expected to encourage smokers to transition to more sustainable alternatives.
Resources
Contact Details
If you have any questions about the new vaping regulations in New Zealand or need clarification on how they affect you, feel free to contact us.
- Email: [email protected]
Vaping Products Permitted Under the Regulations
To comply with the new vape law changes, many vaping products are no longer available. However, VapePenZone has upgraded and updated our vaping products to be fully compliant with the vaping regulations.
Disposable Vapes
Pre-filled Pods and Vape Kits
E-liquids
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$24.98 Inc. Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
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$24.98 Inc. Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
