Alcohol prevention in New Zealand: working towards a national alcohol policy

This paper outlines some of the efforts that have been taken towards the formation of a national alcohol policy in New Zealand and its relevance for prevention planning in New Zealand. Strategies on the availability, taxation, advertising, and shaping of attitudes towards alcohol are discussed from a public health perspective. Preventive advances in alcohol education and health-related promotions for adolescents are also described. A Maori perspective on health and a women's perspective on alcohol prevention are considered essential factors specific to the formulation of a New Zealand alcohol policy. The implementation of any alcohol policy will depend on the level of support achieved, not only at the national level, but also in the wider community.