Hanmer may go smokefree permanently if trial succeeds

Canterbury tourism hotspot Hanmer Springs could be going smokefree, if a six-month trial in the township proves successful.

The Hanmer Springs Community Board has agreed to the trial, which would result in smoking and vaping being banned from the centre of town from February 14.

The town, about 130km north of Christchurch, attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year – many to its large natural hot pools complex. The trial has support from 63 per cent of the town’s businesses, according to a survey taken earlier this year, while 24 per cent oppose it.

The remaining 13 per cent were undecided.

The survey, part of the Government’s goal of making New Zealand smokefree by 2025, was conducted by the Cancer Society in consultation with the Hurunui District Council, Canterbury District Health Board and Hanmer Springs Business Association.

Cancer Society health promotion advisor Cheryl Ford said the plan would be to have a voluntary smoke and vapefree zone, supported by signs and promotions, to encourage positive role modelling to children and make smoking less visible.