News and Notices

New stop-smoking services aim for success


Two new free stop-smoking services are now available to all smokers in the Nelson Marlborough region.

A partnership between Nelson Marlborough Health, Marlborough Primary Health, Nelson Bays Primary Health and Te Piki Oranga, the Stop Smoking and Pepi First services are designed to give smokers the best chance of quitting and staying smoke-free.

They build on the current range of smoking cessation support currently offered in the region, and compliment the Quitline service that offers 24/7 support.

People can refer themselves using a free phone line, or referrals can be made by GPs, midwives and other health practitioners.

Ditre Tamatea, GM Maori Health and Vulnerable Populations, says that Maori and Pasifika smokers were top of mind when it came to designing the new services – especially the Pepi First service for pregnant women.

“We know that mothers want the best start for their babies and that pregnancy is a big incentive to quit smoking and make a positive change,” Ditre says.

“We are really excited about Pepi First, it’s a first in our region and will have significant and lasting benefits for mothers and pepi – the whole whanau. The health system also wins – the health risks to a mother who smokes, and to her child, are serious and can be lifelong.”

Information about the services, and how to get started on your journey to becoming smoke-free can be read on our website here.