An HPV vaccination is now free through schools for year 8 students, and through GPs for anyone aged 9 to 26.

The Health Minister has today launched an awareness campaign, to highlight to parents in particular the benefits of such a vaccine.

Jonathan Coleman said HPV-related cancers cause more than 50 deaths in New Zealand each year, and most of these are preventable.

He said the funding for the extension of the free vaccine comes under the Government's $124 million budget to Pharmac to increase access to new medicines.

The campaign includes radio, online video, print and outdoor advertising.