There is very strong evidence that low SEP New Zealanders have higher smoking rates than others. This pattern is similar to that seen in
other developed countries. Recent work as part of the New Zealand Census-Mortality Study (NZCMS) shows that the risk of tobacco causing death varies by ethnic group and over time.

Tobacco plays a significant role in health inequalities within New Zealand. Higher smoking prevalence seen among low-income groups, M?ori and Pacific peoples.