There needs to be a clear direction in the government's upcoming vaping regulation

The regulation includes a ban on selling to under-18-year-olds, no advertising of vaping or smokeless tobacco products - and restricting most flavours to speciality stores.

National Tobacco Control Advocacy Service at Hapai Te Hauora general manager Stephanie Erick says it needs to have a real focus on presenting vaping as a better alternative for smokers.

She says keeping the flavours will provide a good incentive for cigarette smokers.