Mike Yardley: How can so many New Zealanders still smoke?
The proposed Smokefree 2025 Action Plan includes significantly reducing the number of retailers able to sell tobacco, limiting the nicotine content of cigarettes, and raising the age of purchase every year, so that anyone born after 2004 could never lawfully be sold tobacco.
Columnist Mike Yardley says most lower-income earners who smoke shell out more money in tobacco excise than they do in income tax.
"They should be vigorously urged to switch to vaping as a smoking cessation alternative, given it’s not just far less hazardous to their health, but also to their back pocket," he says.
What do you think of the proposed Smokefree 2025 reforms? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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63.9% Yes
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33.6% No
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2.5% Other - I'll share below
WANTED - Hat Blocks & Hat Making Equipment PLEASE..
Can anyone help.. My daughter is interested in starting to attempt to make hats as a hobby.
I was wondering if anyone might have any old wooden hat blocks (similar to the one pictured) or any old hat making tools or equipment that they no longer use and would like them to go to a good home.
Happy to pay for these.
Please message or email us on mjbraithwaite@xtra.co.nz
Bunches of peonys avail now! (Sunday)
Picked yesterday afternoon before the rain..phew!! Coral charm plus couple bunches of maestro in the bucket. $10 per bunch please have correct change as a honesty box is supplied. Available from 10am till 8pm.
32 Oakland Street ( off langdons road)