Health professionals and campaigners on Thursday stepped up pressure on the New Zealand government to introduce a sugar tax, following the surprise announcement of such a tax in the United Kingdom.

The New Zealand Medical Association said the UK government's plan to tax sugar-sweetened beverages was one of a suite of measures it recommended the New Zealand government consider to address obesity.

"This is an important step in protecting the health of children," NZMA chair Dr Stephen Child said in a statement. "We reiterate our call for the New Zealand government to consider taking a similar step to protect the health of New Zealand children, the most vulnerable in our community."