Experts are calling for stronger policy action to reduce New Zealand's skin cancer burden

A new Public Health Communication Centre report argues for mandatory shade for schools, workplaces, sporting grounds and recreational areas.

They also want a ban on commercial sunbeds and mandatory product standards for sunglasses, clothing and shade materials.

Lead Author Dr Bronwen McNoe says skin cancer has a massive impact on New Zealanders.

She says about 500 people die from the disease every year and 100 thousand people are diagnosed with it.