Anzacs independently act on anti-smoking policies...

NZ and Australia independently act on anti-smoking policies...


Today New Zealand has increased excise taxes on cigarettes by 10% and roll your own cigarette tobacco by14% now and another 10 % at Christmas time for the next two years.



Australia has announced that in future cigarettes and tobacco will be sold in plain packets. No details are available at present.



Two different policies to encourage people to give up smoking? But New Zealand has really done nothing to disencourage smoking and assist people to quit by subsidising nicotine patches and gum for a limited period, and to provide a toll free phone service for counselling.



I believe New Zealand's policy is a revenue gathering exercise to finance hidden agendas. They are expected to raise 250 million dollars or more a year from the increased revenue/

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If the Aussies don't want us the Yanks do...

If the Aussies don't want us the Yanks do...

In light of the call by an Australian Government member of parliament to restrict New Zealanders automatic entry to Australia, the United States has a pilot scheme to fastrack the entry of my fellow Kiwis to that country.

Kiwis can fill out a form for entry online on the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. Previously travellers were required to fill out forms both electronically before leaving, and on a hard copy on arrival.

The pilot scheme will run for thirty days and cover travellers on Air New Zealand flight NZ6. If successful it could be expanded. Yankee Doodle Dandy

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Let a man stand with his face in what direction he will, he must necessarily turn his back on one half of the world. #

We do not remember days; we remember moments. #

Doust thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.-Benjamin Franklin #

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Super 14 rugby season under way this weekend...

The southern hemisphere SANZA professional Super 14 rugby season commenced last evening and this morning NZ time.

The five NZ and four Australian franchises played off against each other, while the South Africans did the same back in the republic.

The seven times champions Crusaders from the top of the South Island and Canterbury narrowly but decisive beat the Chiefs from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty area. Anew coach in Todd Blackadder for the champs; long time coach Robbie deans now coaches the Australian Wallabies test side.

The Brumbies from ACT won a close encounter with the southern men of Otago/Southland. The Waratahs from NSW dealt to the central Hurricanes, and the northern Blues finished off the West Australian Force in Perth.