Hamilton Zoo stubs out smoking with new Smoke-Free policy

Hamilton Zoo is helping to stub out smoking with the introduction of a new smoke-free policy.

The policy will see the majority of the Hamilton Zoo grounds become smoke-free from next Monday, 12 December, with the exception of two designated smoking areas in public parts of the Zoo and two in staff-only areas.

The designated public smoking areas will be equipped with seating and ash trays, and be clearly signposted and marked on Zoo maps. They will be located away from the children’s playground and picnic areas, and the onsite cafe, which was previously the Zoo’s only designated smoke-free area.

Hamilton Zoo Director Stephen Standley said the changes are prompted by public demand and the facility’s desire to offer the best possible experience for its visitors.

“The smoke-free policy will assist us in our drive to deliver excellent service to customers and citizens. Not only is it important that we provide a healthy environment for our visitors but this will also help us maintain a clean, smoke-free natural home for our animals,” he said.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand has applauded Hamilton Zoo for the initiative. Waikato/Bay of Plenty Health Promotion Manager Melanie Desmarais said she is impressed the Zoo is taking such a proactive approach to role-modelling positive non-smoking behaviour to children.

“Research shows the more children are exposed to smoking, the more likely they are to copy what they perceive as normal adult behaviour. It’s great to see Hamilton Zoo has recognised this and is setting a positive example to young Zoo visitors,” she said.