Abstract
A spatial modelling approach was used to explore how a proximity limit (150 m, 300 m, and 450 m) between tobacco retailers may impact different neighbourhoods in New Zealand. Neighbourhoods were categorised into three density groups (0, 1–2, 3+ retailers). As the proximity limit increases, there is a progressive redistribution of neighbourhoods in the three density groups with, the 3+ density group incorporating fewer neighbourhoods and the 0 and 1–2 density groups conversely each consisting of more. The differing measures available at the neighbourhood level enabled our study to discern potential inequities. More directed policies targeting these inequities are needed.
•At the neighbourhood level a tobacco retailer proximity limit would reduce the number of retailers in each density group.•At the 450m limit 35% of neighbourhoods would not have a tobacco retailer present, and 8% would have 3+ retailers.•For those 8% of neighbourhoods with a density of 3+ tobacco retailers, existing inequities are exacerbated by this policy.•A more directed policy is needed to address these remaining tobacco retailing inequities.