The purpose of the operation was to reduce the impact of tobacco related harm, especially in young people, by checking retailers' understanding and adherence to tobacco legislation.
This included not selling to anyone who was under 18 years of age.
Prior to the operation, visits were made to tobacco retailers reminding them of their responsibilities under the Smokefree Environments Act 1990. This legislation prohibited the sale of tobacco to a person under the age of 18 years and also banned smoking in enclosed areas of workplaces, hospitality venues and public buildings.
"It is pleasing to see that the majority of the tobacco retailers visited are meeting their legal responsibilities and refusing to sell to children," Dr Shoemack said.
"The retailers that sold tobacco to someone underage have each been fined $500. This should serve as a caution that Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service takes the matter seriously and we run regular checks across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts."
To find out more about tobacco legislation or to make an enquiry, visit www.ttophs.govt.nz/tobacco for more information.