by Viveyan Tuhimata-Weke, Pukenga Manaaki

As part of the Smoke Free Coalition Group in Wairau, Te Piki Oranga were invited to the RNZAF Base Woodbourne by the Health & Safety rep Sally Tringham to observe the initiatives that are now in place. You will notice in the photo one of nine stations recently erected for smokers on Base. There are only 39 personal who have identified themselves as being smokers out of over 1000 currently stationed on Base, which is great progress.

There are maps to identify where the smokers shelters are. All new staff coming onto Base are advised of the smoking rules prior to arrival. Following the site tour we were invited to dine at the Officers Mess with the Base Commander for Lunch.