The policy will create smoke-free zones in outdoor dining areas on council-controlled land and within 10 metres of children’s playgrounds, tennis courts and swimming pools.

Batemans Bay’s Will Charles gave the new policy the thumbs up.

“I am in support of it,” he said.

“Even though I’m a smoker, I am very considerate and I don’t smoke in front of children or people who don’t smoke. If someone is near me when I am smoking, then I go away.”

Daniel Sennitt and Darren Spurling believe that no one should oppose the policy.

“If they bring in regulations like this, then you have no choice but to comply, you can’t go against them,” Mr Sennitt said.

“It is a way to respect the rights of others.”

Mr Spurling agreed.

“I have no issues with it, especially in regards to kids’ sport,” he said.

“I pretty much support it.”

Karin Dehertog had an extra reason to support the policy.

“I want to give up, so anything they can do to reduce smoking, I am happy with that,” she said.

Sharon Mitchell is also in support.

“I think it is a good thing, even though I smoke,” she said. “I think it is especially important to keep smoke away from children and eating.”

Eurobodalla Mayor Fergus Thomson said the policy was intended to be largely self-enforcing, and that it would be reviewed in 12 months.