Marlborough – biggest drop in number of teenage smokers

4 February 2014

Latest results from the 2013 Census show that the Marlborough region has seen the biggest percentage decrease in the number of smokers aged 15–19 years.

2013 Census regional summary tables – part 2, released today, gives an interesting impression of the Marlborough region and its districts.

“For instance, the number of 15–19-year-olds in Marlborough who smoke regularly decreased 55.1 percent since the 2006 Census. This was the biggest percentage decrease in the number of smokers in this age group in the country, and represents 309 fewer young people lighting up,” Census General Manager Sarah Minson said.

In last year’s census, 11.7 percent of Marlborough residents aged 15–19 years reported being regular smokers, down from 22.7 percent in 2006.

Of all Marlborough adults, 23.7 percent reported receiving income from New Zealand Superannuation or the Veteran’s Pension in last year’s census, the highest proportion in the country. The total number of Marlborough residents receiving income from this source increased 25.6 percent since 2006.

“This local breakdown of census information is some of the most important, as it will help communities and service providers plan for the future,” Ms Minson said. “Providers of local services such as health, education, community, and recreational facilities can use census data to form a picture of the region and what it needs to succeed.”

2013 Census regional summary tables – part 2 has more information on topics such as religion, relationship status, occupation, and smoking.

ENDS

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