Asthma affects approximately 9% of young adults in New Zealand, with evidence of an increase in prevalence over recent years. Morbidity and mortality from this condition have caused widespread concern. In response to identified deficiencies in asthma management, initiatives to promote self-management using an asthma action plan were promoted throughout the Canterbury region in 1991 as part of a regional pilot study. A resource kit was prepared and self-management principles were promoted to general practitioners in discussion workshops. A community-wide promotion of the action plan was followed by a process and outcome evaluation. The plan and associated resources were well received by doctors and patients. Seventy-seven percent of doctors responding to a questionnaire had used the plan, and of these, 94% indicated that they would continue to use the plan in the future. Patients who obtained a completed plan experienced a greater reduction in nocturnal waking with asthma and improved self-management skills.