A Google search shows that there are at least 11 vape stores operating on the Hibiscus Coast.

Despite recent legislation aimed at limiting youth access to vaping products, concerns are growing about the close proximity of these stores to local schools.

New research, led by Ronan Payinda, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Auckland, reveals that 44% of schools are located within one kilometre of a specialist vape store, and 13% have one within just 300 metres.

Payinda's study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health on 7 May, shows that youth are being exposed to vape marketing and stores on a daily basis.

He argues that this constant exposure puts young people at risk of developing nicotine addiction.

Payinda, who witnessed the rise of vaping during his time at school in Northland, says Aotearoa New Zealand is not doing enough to address the health risks associated with vaping.

Since 2020, it has been illegal to sell vapes to anyone under 18, but youth vaping rates remain concerning.

In 2021, 26% of secondary school students reported having vaped in the previous week.

Although legislation passed in 2023 bans new vape stores from opening within 300 metres of schools and marae, existing stores are still allowed to operate.

Payinda calls for stronger regulations to prevent the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.

The study also highlights a significant disparity in the location of vape stores.

Among the wealthiest schools, only 7% had a specialist vape store within 300 metres, compared to 40% of schools in the poorest communities.

This inequity exacerbates existing socio-economic disparities and increases the likelihood of young people in disadvantaged areas being exposed to vaping products.

Research from the United States has shown that exposure to e-cigarette marketing in retail stores increases the likelihood of middle and high-school students using vapes.

Payinda echoes these concerns, pointing to emerging evidence of long-term health risks associated with youth vaping, including lower lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic bronchitis.

The findings from Payinda's study underscore the need for more stringent vaping regulations to protect young people from the harms of vaping and ensure they are not exposed to harmful products near their schools.

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