A recent covert operation targeting Taranaki vape retailers has uncovered one store selling nicotine juice to a minor teenager.
Of the 16 who were visited by the region’s public health unit as part of a planned sting, Shosha Waitara was the only one who failed in his duty not to sell to anyone under 18.
In the case of Shosha Waitara, vape juice containing nicotine was sold to a 14-year-old.
The store, which is in Waitara’s main street, only recently opened.
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Carly Stevenson, the unit’s non-smoking enforcement officer, said it was illegal to sell vapors to children.
A retailer caught selling vaping products to anyone under the age of 18 will be referred to the Ministry of Health, which will consider what steps need to be taken, she said.
A Taranaki steam shop could face fines after being caught in a recent stabbing operation. (File image)
This could be a violation notice, along with a $ 200 fine and / or prosecution.
Stevenson said identification should be requested if the buyer looks under 25, and businesses should be aware of their obligations regarding the sale of vaping products.
The unit will continue to monitor vape retailers formed to sell to underage buyers, and will continue to conduct future covert operations.