Sociodemographic characteristics of New Zealand adult smokers, ex-smokers, and non-smokers: results from the 2006 Census.

AIM: To analyse adult smoking rates in New Zealand using 2006 Census data
METHODS: Data from the 2006 Census of Population and Dwellings were analysed for smoking status against various demographic variables. Data were compared against 1996 Census data to identify changes in smoking prevalence. Age standardised rates were calculated for gender and ethnicity using the WHO Population Standard.
RESULTS: The prevalence of regular smokers aged 15 years and over in New Zealand in 2006 was 20.7%, a 3% decrease since 1996. People identifying with Maori and Pacific ethnic groups as well as people who reside in areas of greater deprivation, who earn less, and who are unemployed continue to have the highest rates of smoking. The prevalence of never having smoked regularly has increased among 15 to 19 year olds; increases are not reflected to the same extent among 20 to 24 year olds, however, thus suggesting a possible increase in the age of initiation over the last 10 years.
CONCLUSION: While the prevalence of smoking in New Zealand continues to decline, the decrease is gradual--3% over 10 years, largely due to a reduction in initiation rather than increased cessation--and significant ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities in smoking persist. These findings are being used to inform policy and practice in tobacco control, including ensuring that programmes and initiatives are accessible and reliably delivered to groups with the highest smoking rates.