The DHB's director of population health, Caroline McElnay, said 35 retailers were checked in Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.
"Hawke's Bay is in the unenviable position of second when it comes to regular youth smoking within New Zealand's 20 DHBs, and we are determined to improve that situation," Dr McElnay said.
"Preventing the uptake of smoking by minors is an important focus in achieving a Smokefree New Zealand by 2025.
"We will continue controlled purchase operations, so employers should ensure that they and their staff understand their obligations under the Smokefree Environments Act."
Recent statistics indicated cigarette purchases by 14 to 15-year-old New Zealanders were predominantly made at dairies.
Selling cigarettes to a person under 18 can result in an instant fine of up to $1000.
The DHB was working with Hawke's Bay Smokefree Coalition on a new project to encourage retailers in the province to stop selling tobacco.
"Fewer tobacco retailers means children and young people are less likely to take up smoking, more people will become and stay smokefree, and the availability and visibility of tobacco in our communities will reduce," Dr McElnay said.
"Being able to buy tobacco anywhere, anytime, makes it harder for people who want to stay smokefree." -If you are a retailer and
are interested in becoming tobacco free, phone Michele Grigg on 06 834 1815.
