Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand, has some of the strictest smoking regulations in the world. Most airports in this region are entirely smoke-free indoors, with smoking limited to designated outdoor areas before security checkpoints.
Smoking Policies in Oceania
Australia and New Zealand have implemented comprehensive smoke-free laws that extend to all airport terminals. Indoor smoking is prohibited without exception at all major airports in the region. Smokers must use designated outdoor areas, which are typically located outside terminal buildings before the security screening area.
What to Expect at Australian Airports
Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE), and Perth (PER) all follow similar policies: smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas outside the terminal. Once you pass through security, there are no smoking facilities available until you reach your destination.
Key points for Australian airports:
No post-security smoking areas at any Australian airport
Outdoor smoking zones are located before check-in or between terminals
You must exit the secure area and re-clear security to smoke
Vaping is treated the same as smoking under Australian law
What to Expect at New Zealand Airports
Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), and Christchurch (CHC) airports are completely smoke-free indoors. Outdoor smoking areas are available but located outside terminal buildings.
Tips for Smokers Traveling Through Oceania
Plan to smoke before entering the terminal or after arriving
Long layovers may require exiting security – allow extra time for re-screening
Consider nicotine alternatives for long flights departing from the region
Cigarettes are expensive in Australia and New Zealand due to high taxes
Duty-free tobacco allowances are strictly enforced at customs
Connecting Through Oceania
If you have a layover at an Australian or New Zealand airport, be aware that you will not be able to smoke until you either exit and re-enter security (domestic connections) or reach your final destination. For international transit passengers, smoking facilities are not available in the secure transit area.