Taupo District Council has agreed to adopt the Smokefree/Auahi Kore District Wide Action Plan, signalling its commitment to creating a smokefree district in the future.

The issue was presented to councillors at Tuesday’s council meeting, following a workshop on the plan in June.

Chief executive Gareth Green said the decision was a step in the right direction for reducing smoking and related harm.

"In 2011, Central Government set a goal for us as a nation to significantly reduce smoking to just 5 per cent by 2025, and our adoption of this plan shows we are on board and committed to do our bit," he said. "Through this plan we can start to reduce the exposure to our communities through signage, education and public opinion."

He said it was more than a health initiative - it would also have flow on effects to the environment by reducing litter and protecting our waterways and other natural assets.

"This is about both our present and future generations and it is our shared responsibility, along with Central Government and other health and wellbeing agencies," Mr Green said. "This is an integral part of looking after the place and the people we love. It also aligns with our vision to be the most prosperous and liveable district in the North Island by 2022."

An action plan is set to be formulated over the next few months and introduced later this year.

Source: Voxy.co.nz