One cigarette retailer in Marlborough could face prosecution by the Ministry of Health after allegedly selling cigarettes recently to a youth under the age of 18 years.
A Controlled Purchase Operation was carried out by Nelson Marlborough Public Health Service in the Nelson/Tasman on October 12, and in Marlborough on October 13, with volunteers under 18 years of age.
The volunteers attempted to buy cigarettes from 46 outlets around Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.
Nelson Marlborough District Health Board, Community Based Service Director, Peter Burton said, "All tobacco retailers had an audit visit in August this year.
"They were also sent a letter which reminded them of their legal obligations with regard to sales of tobacco to people under 18 years with advice that a Closed Purchase Operation would be conducted."
He said those that did not sell to the minors are to be contacted individually and complimented.
It has been the Ministry of Health's policy to consider prosecution following a sale of tobacco to a minor and a case file and evidence will be prepared and sent to the Ministry for a decision.
Premises visited during the operation included supermarkets, dairies and service station outlets.
Mr Burton said these annual operations are necessary to ensure the community is fully aware that it is illegal to sell cigarettes to people under the age of 18 years.
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