Smoking is prohibited in most indoor public places in New Zealand, including restaurants, cafés, bars, shopping centres, workplaces, and public transport. Smoking is generally allowed in designated outdoor areas, although some councils and businesses have introduced smoke-free outdoor spaces. If you smoke while travelling in New Zealand, it's important to follow local signage and property rules.
New Zealand has some of the strictest smoking regulations in the world. Most visitors find the rules straightforward, but it's worth understanding where smoking is and isn't permitted before you travel.
In general, smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces and indoor workplaces throughout the country.
Can I smoke in restaurants, cafés, and bars?
No.
Smoking is not permitted inside restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs, or nightclubs anywhere in New Zealand.
Many venues provide outdoor smoking areas, although some have removed them entirely as part of wider smoke-free policies.
If you're unsure, check with staff before smoking.
Can I smoke at hotels and accommodation?
It depends on the property.
Many hotels, motels, lodges, and holiday parks are completely smoke-free indoors. Some properties provide designated outdoor smoking areas, while others may prohibit smoking anywhere on the premises except in specific locations.
Smoking inside a non-smoking room can result in cleaning fees or additional charges.
If smoking facilities are important to you, check the property's policies before arrival.
Can I smoke in public places?
Smoking is generally allowed outdoors unless signs indicate otherwise.
Many councils have introduced smoke-free areas around:
- Children's playgrounds
- Sports grounds
- Public parks
- Bus stops
- Outdoor dining areas
- Public event spaces
These policies vary between regions, so it's always best to follow local signage.
What about vaping in New Zealand?
Vaping is regulated under many of the same rules as smoking.
In most cases, vaping is not permitted inside restaurants, cafés, bars, workplaces, shopping centres, or on public transport.
Individual businesses and accommodation providers may also have their own vaping policies.
Can I bring cigarettes into New Zealand?
Visitors can bring a limited quantity of tobacco products into New Zealand for personal use, subject to Customs regulations and duties.
Allowances and import rules can change, so it's worth checking the latest requirements with New Zealand Customs before travelling.
Is smoking common in New Zealand?
Smoking rates in New Zealand have declined significantly over the past decade.
You'll still see people smoking, particularly in designated outdoor areas, but smoking is much less common than it once was. Most public spaces, attractions, restaurants, and tourism businesses actively promote smoke-free environments.
For travellers, this means you'll rarely encounter smoking indoors and will generally need to use designated outdoor areas where available.