New vaping laws have been a long-time coming, but won't be enforced with a heavy hand.

The changes come into effect today, with more rules on the way next August.

The first phase bans vape sales to minors, stops the advertising of some products and prevents the devices being used in smoke-free areas.

Health Minister Andrew Little told Mike Hosking prohibitions in schools and workplaces are managed by those premises.

"Specialist vaping stores and dairies are restricted to what they can sell anyway - and they'll be somewhat self-policed."

Little says it's important a system is in place to restrict these products from younger people.

He says vaping needs to be regulated because it still carries a number of hazards.

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