Aims: To review the evidence on knowledge and attitudes among the New Zealand public concerning secondhand smoke (SHS) and smoking in homes and cars.
Methods: A literature search for published and unpublished material relevant to New Zealand.
Results: While New Zealanders' knowledge about SHS effects has improved since 1989, with 90% or more of the adult population aware of a risk to health, this knowledge may be shallow. Wellington area surveys indicate that significant proportions of the population are not aware of both the major consequences of SHS, that is, strokes and heart disease. Survey data indicates increasing public support for smokefree homes during 1999-2003, particularly among Maori who showed a 68% increase in support during that period. In 2003, over 80% of New Zealand smokers indicated that people have a right to smokefree homes. However, these attitudes do not necessarily result in smokefree homes. Of those 14-15 year olds with at least one parent who smoked, less than 45% reported having a smokefree home.
Conclusions: Improved tobacco control and increased investment in mass media campaigns on SHS issues are needed to strengthen healthy norms around smokefree homes and cars.