We Say, You Say: How much influence does Big Tobacco have?
New Zealand is one of the better countries at keeping the tobacco industry's influence on government policy, but the Cancer Society says New Zealand still needs to exercise vigilance.
New Zealand is currently ranked 5th on the Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index, behind the United Kingdom and Uganda. With New Zealand's goal to be smokefree less than five years away, the Cancer Society warns that the tobacco industry will be looking for new ways to weaken health policy.
In late September, the Hamilton City Council ruled unanimously in favour of a ban on vaping in smokefree areas after principals said that an increase in vaping led to school children taking up smoking.
Do you think that New Zealand's going to achieve its goal to be smokefree by 2025?
*Please type NFP if you don't want your comment featured in the conversations section of the Hamilton Press
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.7% 1st December
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16.6% A week before Christmas
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32.5% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Do you think an age check is required for these drinks?
Stores are checking IDs for fancy soft drinks and not everyone is happy about it.
One shopper, who asked not to be named, bought some zero alcohol branded drinks at his local supermarket and was asked to “step around into the thoroughfare so a supervisor could see me and make sure I was over 18. I couldn't believe it."
Do you think an age check is required for these drinks? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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33.3% Yes
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0% Not sure
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66.7% No
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.