New research suggests a smoke-free New Zealand will greatly benefit Maori life expectancy.
The research, from Alistair Woodward from the University of Auckland and Tony Blakely from the University of Otago, tells the story of life and death in New Zealand over its history.
The latest statistics show Maori have a life expectancy, which is 7.3 years shorter than Pakeha.
Professor Woodward said if New Zealand went smoke-free, Maori life expectancy could increase by up to five years.
He said Pakeha life expectancy would go up by three years if New Zealand went smoke-free.
