Attacking sponsorship of sport and cultural events by food and beverage companies will do nothing to tackle obesity in New Zealand and diverts attention away from the real issues. That's according to the Association of New Zealand Advertisers (ANZA) in response to moves by the Auckland Regional Public Health Service seeking to limit corporate sponsorship of public events.

Lindsay Mouat, Chief Executive of ANZA, said:

"Obesity in this country is a serious issue deserving serious attention; simply attacking big brands is unhelpful.

"It would be far healthier if public health policy was centred on things that are actually proven to make a difference. Better education of children on healthy diets, for example, and encouraging exercise. Demonising the food we eat is all too easy and, I'm afraid, unhelpful."