Would you pay $100 for a pack of smokes?

[The Singing Chef]

Dairy owners fears of burglary caused by the high price of ciggies. (http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/6795455/Theft-fear-if-smoke-cost-soars)


The Health Ministry has discussed raising the price of cigarettes to $100 over the next eight years to help achieve the Government's goal of a smokefree New Zealand by 2025. A suggestion has been made by the ministry that the Government hike the price of a packet of cigarettes to $60 next year and then by 10 per cent a year, making the cost of a pack $100 by 2020.

Do you think they will actually be able to put the price up to $100 a packet? Or are they dreaming?

[george formby]

Nothing wrong with growing your own.

[Usarka]

Prediction: American big business will put the lean on (they already starting to) and we'll cave in.


If it does, just get a hundy bag from the local dealer instead


Nothing wrong with growing your own.

I heard it tastes like shit (at first) but that just goes to show how much other crap they put into cigarettes.

[Maha]

I am a tight arse...even when I was stupid enough to freely give my hard earned cash to the smoke makers, I would look for the cheapest brand...not that Horizen or Holiday shit....JPS 20's light blue...I used to not care and smoke Winfeild.
Thank fuck those days are way behind me now.
$4K extra per year in my pocket...not someone else's.

$100 per packet?... I guess some will.

[george formby]

I heard it tastes like shit (at first) but that just goes to show how much other crap they put into cigarettes.

Tis true.

The more pressure the better for me, every fag I smoke now is one closer to stopping but it's hard. Not having any will power sucks, think of all the bits I could buy for my bike....

[The Singing Chef]

Nothing wrong with growing your own.



I heard it tastes like shit (at first) but that just goes to show how much other crap they put into cigarettes.

My neighbour across the road grows his own, had a few with him before and it tastes fine, just like a roll your own. Guess it all depends how you grow it, dry it and if you put a mixture over top as it dries to add flavour.

Sorry for spelling, been a long day surfing.

[rustic101]

The answer to your question from my perspective as a smoker is Yes. Would it slow my smoking down, maybe, would it stop me No.

As a smoker I was surprised to see even the anti smoking groups rubbishing the concept of increasing the cost. Even the Govt stated it was ridiculous idea - What's this common sense???

Another question one would need to ask is would you pay $100 for a burger, chicken wing or bottle of beer? Where do you stop.

[p.dath]

Prediction: American big business will put the lean on (they already starting to) and we'll cave in.


It's not like copyright where people die from it, and smoking represents no danger to life; hold on ...

[jasonu]

Paddy O'Reilly, funny name for a curry muncher.

[NinjaNanna]

As a smoker I was surprised to see even the anti smoking groups rubbishing the concept of increasing the cost.

Guess who else will be out of a job if all the smokers quit <_<

[5150]

Question should be, "Would you walk a mile for a Camel ?"

[Madness]

http://www.ndp.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexcm/ndp-tobacco-returns-2011

Some interesting reading here for those interested.

[The Singing Chef]

http://www.ndp.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexcm/ndp-tobacco-returns-2011

Some interesting reading here for those interested.

Worth a read, especially if you want to see what goes into your cigarettes!

[Andy67]

It's inevitable that smokes will get to this level, just a matter of time. Already eyewateringly expensive and a government committed to staying the course. Tax take must be flipping enormous with over half a million regular smokers in NZ.....

I really think they are on the wrong track, smoking is an addiction, serious addiction and should be treated as such. I am in favour of prescription ciggies if we even have to go down this path at all.

Failing all else will just pop to indo and pick up a few thousand packs and ...well 100 bucks a pack, someone will. What's the worst that could happen, confiscation by customs?

[The Singing Chef]

It's inevitable that smokes will get to this level, just a matter of time. Already eyewateringly expensive and a government committed to staying the course. Tax take must be flipping enormous with over half a million regular smokers in NZ.....

I really think they are on the wrong track, smoking is an addiction, serious addiction and should be treated as such. I am in favour of prescription ciggies if we even have to go down this path at all.

Failing all else will just pop to indo and pick up a few thousand packs and ...well 100 bucks a pack, someone will. What's the worst that could happen, confiscation by customs?

I would imagine that by now, the tax take would be huge, as figures from May 2000 show that smokes were on average $8.50 for a 20-pack (Really?!) with the amount of tax being between 67-72%.

http://www.ndp.govt.nz/moh.nsf/pagescm/1008/$File/tobaccotaxnzexperience.pdf

[NinjaNanna]

holy fuck they're huge numbers - blows the mind - hate to think what would happen to the tax revenues when people spot smoking.


Go light another one up guys I can't afford for you to give up

[Bassmatt]

holy fuck they're huge numbers - blows the mind - hate to think what would happen to the tax revenues when people spot smoking.


GST increase - bet on it.

[unstuck]

Would I pay $100 for a packet of fags? NO. Would I sell you a packet of fags for $100, YES.:msn-wink:

[The Singing Chef]

Yea it is crazy looking at the numbers! Though 'Grow your own' is apparently pretty damn cheap, just means that you have to learn how to grow a plant :bleh: but then I would imagine that the Health ministry and government would then put a levy/registration on 'grow your own' just to rub it in.

[Andy67]

holy fuck they're huge numbers - blows the mind - hate to think what would happen to the tax revenues when people spot smoking.


Go light another one up guys I can't afford for you to give up

Yep sure pays for a few hospital beds I'm sure, far more than are needed at any one time to treat smoking related illness.....still that's the justification isn't it?

Thing that shits me...it's smoking for the moment, what other personal choice type activities are next?

[The Singing Chef]

Yep sure pays for a few hospital beds I'm sure, far more than are needed at any one time to treat smoking related illness.....still that's the justification isn't it?

Thing that shits me...it's smoking for the moment, what other personal choice type activities are next?

Motorcycles - noticing a trend at all? Rising prices, public perception etc...

[Nova.]

Govt wont allow it, think how much they make from tax a year from ciggys?

[sil3nt]

Govt wont allow it, think how much they make from tax a year from ciggys?Think how much they spend trying to keep the fuckwits alive in hospital :rolleyes:

[Madness]

It costs the multinationals no more than about NZD$0.50 to produce a packet of 20 cigarettes. Mr Patel makes about $1.50 profit, as does the wholesaler (Foodstuffs). The gubbermint takes around $10.00 ~ $12.00 from that pack of 20's at today's prices. Studies have been done to show that the tax take exceeds the cost of healthcare for a smoking related illness and that was years ago, before the prices reached todays levels.

[sil3nt]

Studies have been done to show that the tax take exceeds the cost of healthcare for a smoking related illness and that was years ago, before the prices reached todays levels.Really?

I briefly skimmed this document http://www.sfc.org.nz/pdfs/taxareportsummary07.pdf

Costs to NZ: 1.7 Billion
Revenue: 1 Billion

Perhaps I am reading the wrong numbers or reading those numbers wrong but at least I didn't just make something up out of thin air like you.

[SMOKEU]

It's easy enough to grow your own tobacco, curing it is the hard(er) part. I've smoked some pretty damn good homegrown tobacco before, but it does take a fair bit of skill and knowledge to cure it properly so it tastes good. Plenty of online guides out there on the subject.

[mashman]

The answer to your question from my perspective as a smoker is Yes. Would it slow my smoking down, maybe, would it stop me No.

As a smoker I was surprised to see even the anti smoking groups rubbishing the concept of increasing the cost. Even the Govt stated it was ridiculous idea - What's this common sense???

Another question one would need to ask is would you pay $100 for a burger, chicken wing or bottle of beer? Where do you stop.

+1 and some chars

[Nova.]

It's easy enough to grow your own tobacco, curing it is the hard(er) part. I've smoked some pretty damn good homegrown tobacco before, but it does take a fair bit of skill and knowledge to cure it properly so it tastes good. Plenty of online guides out there on the subject.

Mixture of rum and sumtin else.

[Madness]

I didn't just make something up out of thin air like you.

A report for the Smokefree Coalition and ASH New Zealand. Skewed slightly perhaps?

I worked in the industry for five years. You might think I'm making that up too, in which case you could always go fuck yourself.

[sil3nt]

A report for the Smokefree Coalition and ASH New Zealand. Skewed slightly perhaps?

I worked in the industry for five years. You might think I'm making that up too, in which case you could always go fuck yourself.So we can't trust ASH but we can trust you because you worked in the industry? Yeah ok :rolleyes:

If your going to claim smoking doesn't cost the country you could at least back it up.

[Madness]

If your going to claim smoking doesn't cost the country you could at least back it up.

Believe what you want. I'm off outside to enjoy a cigarette. In fact I might have two :motu:

[mashman]

Really?

I briefly skimmed this document http://www.sfc.org.nz/pdfs/taxareportsummary07.pdf

Costs to NZ: 1.7 Billion
Revenue: 1 Billion

Perhaps I am reading the wrong numbers or reading those numbers wrong but at least I didn't just make something up out of thin air like you.

From your link

"The tangible costs of smoking to New Zealand in 2005 were of the order
of NZ$1.7 billion, or about 1.1 percent of GDP. Major components are lost
production due to premature mortality, lost production due to smokingcaused morbidity, and smoking-caused health-care costs. "

Not just the cost of healthcare.

[Madness]

20 second google search is all I can be fucked with. I never stated it was N.Z specific.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_Finance_Balance_of_Smoking_in_the_Czech_Rep ublic

[SMOKEU]

Mixture of rum and sumtin else.

+1 to that! Soaked in whiskey is also quite tasty.

[Madness]

Not just the cost of healthcare.

But, but, but... Smoking is the root of all evil so surely sil3ntfart can't be wrong.

[mashman]

But, but, but... Smoking is the root of all evil so surely sil3ntfart can't be wrong.

yer both full of pish and wind :bleh:

"The cost of smoking-related health care to the New Zealand taxpayer is about $250 million." (http://www.cancernz.org.nz/Uploads/IS_TC_smkcost.pdf)

[Madness]

So tobacco revenue is $1 Billion
Minus Healthcare costs $250 Million

= Kachingo!!!!

[blue rider]

It costs the multinationals no more than about NZD$0.50 to produce a packet of 20 cigarettes. Mr Patel makes about $1.50 profit, as does the wholesaler (Foodstuffs). The gubbermint takes around $10.00 ~ $12.00 from that pack of 20's at today's prices. Studies have been done to show that the tax take exceeds the cost of healthcare for a smoking related illness and that was years ago, before the prices reached todays levels.


also the fact, that smokers often die young.... and collect no pensions etc.

happy to have stopped, more money for fun.

[mashman]

So tobacco revenue is $1 Billion
Minus Healthcare costs $250 Million

= Kachingo!!!!

It would seem that smokers are cross-subsiding non-smokers by 400% or so. Now that sounds vaguely familiar and if I remember correctly, the user group it was directed at received a hefty premium hike :innocent:

[Pussy]

happy to have stopped, more money for fun.

I share your sentiments on that!

[SMOKEU]

If the government makes so much money from smokers, I don't see why they want it banned. I can understand them raising prices so that it's only just affordable in order to gather the most revenue. It's a fine balance between cost of tobacco vs. number of smokers. I suspect that the cost of a 20 pack of smokes (disregarding inflation) will have to be around the $20 a pack mark to make a significant difference to the amount of smokers. The cost of pouch tobacco will have to increase by a similar percentage.

[darkwolf]

I don't smoke and I'm not too fussed if you do. But if the price goes up to $100/packet I'd hate to think of the effect it would have on dairy owners, the kids of those who can't afford to smoke at the moment and the cost to enforce any laws preventing backyard tobacco sales. :no:

There are some stupid idea bandied about from time to time to solve minor issues, but increasing the cost of a packet of cigarettes to $100 is right up there.

Do you wonder if sometimes these people accidentally leave their mouths open causing their thoughts to fall out before they get a chance to form? :weird:

[Bassmatt]

If the government makes so much money from smokers, I don't see why they want it banned.

They don't really want to, thats why there is all this pontificating and angst about it instead of actually doing something.
The fact the govt. has said they dont like the idea of putting the cost up to $100 a pack says it all.
They could ban it overnight if they really wanted to.
Dope on the other hand.......fucken hypocrites.

[Madness]

Do you wonder if sometimes these people accidentally leave their mouths open causing their thoughts to fall out before they get a chance to form? :weird:

There are two politicians attempting to drive these proposals in New Zealand parliament;

http://www.parliament.nz/NR/rdonlyres/9D8726E2-3919-4E20-A687-F8BA29E32AB7/0/12692HoneHarawira.jpghttp://www.parliament.nz/NR/rdonlyres/530D7F6E-B50E-4492-BCC9-DF00ED7A331D/0/1208TarianaTuria.jpg

Any more questions?

[mashman]

If the government makes so much money from smokers, I don't see why they want it banned.

coz it's bad for you and you're not in your right mind if you smoke because unlike everything else in the world, this kills you, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, maybe not in 40 or 50 years, but it will get you... unless you kill your liver from alcohol abuse, or your brain from drug abuse, or fall down the stairs and kill yourself, or fall off a ladder and kill yourself, or contract a non smoking related illness (if there is such a thing) and kill yourself, or fall off your motorcycle and kill yourself, or catch a sexually transmitted disease and kill yourself, or eat too much fatty food and kill yourself, or annoy your wife and she kills yourself, or you take a gun and blow your brains out mildly injuring yourself to death, or inherit a fatal disease and kill yourself, or borrow money from a loan shark and they help you to kill yourself etc... most of which happen pretty much instantly in comparison to the 40 or 50 years it takes for smoking that kills yourself (unless of course it's a lifetime of breathing in exhaust fumes :innocent:). We're obviously asking for it, so we should pay through the nose to subsidise non-smokers and their exhaust breathing.

[Zedder]

No, I wouldn't pay $100 for a pack of smokes. I note that John Key and Ben Youdan, from anti smoking charity Ash, have dismissed the Health Ministry suggestion as unrealistic.

[Flip]

To all those smokers who pay all my tax for me.

Har-de-fucking-ha-ha you fag suckers.

[SMOKEU]

Dope on the other hand.......fucken hypocrites.

Yet it's legal for parents to poison their young children who don't know any better by feeding them on a diet of high fat foods such as KFC and deep fried chips because they're too lazy to cook a healthy meal.

[Madness]

To all those smokers who pay all my tax for me.

Har-de-fucking-ha-ha you fag suckers.

Can you help me pay my bike rego, please? Pay it forward and all...

[short-circuit]

Believe what you want. I'm off outside to enjoy a cigarette. In fact I might have two :motu:

Very few in the corporate sector of the tabacco industry smoke themselves...funny that.

[unstuck]

Smoke em if you got em chaps :stoogie: I usually give it up for a year or two and then start up again for a few months. If the price gets much more out of hand I will just grow my own if I feel I need to, I got given quite a few tobacco seeds not long ago so should be alright.:msn-wink:

[Madness]

Very few in the corporate sector of the tabacco industry smoke themselves...funny that.

My first-hand experience was actually quite the opposite.

[short-circuit]

My first-hand experience....

Where was this?

[mossy1200]

Think how much they spend trying to keep the fuckwits alive in hospital :rolleyes:

Think how much super the government saves when the average smoker dies 10 years earlier.

[MIZXR]

[QUOTE=SMOKEU;1130311207]If the government makes so much money from smokers, I don't see why they want it banned. QUOTE]

A small number of people, strangly, people like those two above made a lot of noise and NZ'ers being who we are jump on the bandwagon or ignore it. The example you should like would be a refence to our culturally disadvantaged population and the mid 80's number increases when a maori benift was announced.
back then "We have lost our identity and culture give us money to get it back."
now "we want to stop the large numbers of our moari youth and women from smoking".

Green cars, mining, logging, farming, historical buildings, motorcycles. A small group making a lot of noise can do wonders.

[Andy67]

To all those smokers who pay all my tax for me.

Har-de-fucking-ha-ha you fag suckers.

Fuck off idiot

[short-circuit]

Think how much super the government saves when the average smoker dies 10 years earlier.

Why waste time just throw all thick cunts into one of these....


http://i795.photobucket.com/albums/yy239/blkst3/HolocaustovenBurningJewpushesdooropen.jpg

(Pretty efficient and good for the economy)

....whoops Godwin :eek:

[short-circuit]

Fuck off idiot

Yip I.Q too low. You can bake

[Flip]

Fuck off idiot

Sticks and stones will break my bones

But smoking will kill you slowly.

[Pussy]

It's got me buggered how those that can least afford to smoke cigarettes seem to be those who smoke the most.
It's not compulsory to smoke....

[Andy67]

Sticks and stones will break my bones

But smoking will kill you slowly.

So much angst bro, why the angst?

[awa355]

Boy, five pages posted since 4pm. Imagine if the govt had suggested putting bike regos up to $2,000? That'll come in with the $100 ciggys.

[Zedder]

Boy, five pages posted since 4pm. Imagine if the govt had suggested putting bike regos up to $2,000? That'll come in with the $100 ciggys.

Nah, the compulsory hi-viz will sort all the rego/licensing costs out.

[Jantar]

$100 for a pack of cigs? I wouldn't even pay $0.01. :no:

[LankyBastard]

I'm all for dishing out fines to all the smokers that seem to think it's their right to just drop their butts on the ground when they're done. Bloody disgusting habit. Pfffft :no:

[Andy67]

I'm all for dishing out fines to all the smokers that seem to think it's their right to just drop their butts on the ground when they're done. Bloody disgusting habit. Pfffft :no:

Agreed mate but smokers are addicts and society has all but removed any sort of public ashtray, smoking area or otherwise. Not so the case many years ago. Singapore is very strict, imagine being Singaporean and going to Amsterdam for your honeymoon, arriving home and getting a blood test for hashish, rotan time babe, yep dirty smokers, those Sing guys know how to keep everyone in line, who's next?

[Woodman]

Agreed mate but smokers are addicts and society has all but removed any sort of public ashtray, smoking area or otherwise. Not so the case many years ago. Singapore is very strict, imagine being Singaporean and going to Amsterdam for your honeymoon, arriving home and getting a blood test for hashish, rotan time babe, yep dirty smokers.

Why should "society" provide ashtrays for the lazy fuckers. Dog owners carry a bag around for their dogs to shit in when on walkies. Whats the difference?

[The Singing Chef]

I'm all for dishing out fines to all the smokers that seem to think it's their right to just drop their butts on the ground when they're done. Bloody disgusting habit. Pfffft :no:

:whistle: Yea filthy habit that one. They enforce that in Brisbane as well, found that out rather quickly lol.

[Andy67]

Why should "society" provide ashtrays for the lazy fuckers. Dog owners carry a bag around for their dogs to shit in when on walkies. Whats the difference?

Dog owners what planet are you on ? There are posties in this city who refuse to deliver mail and you think they pick up shit , you sunshine are having a laugh :doh:

[Madness]

http://www.gearfuse.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/pootrap.jpg

[mashman]

I love droppin my fag ends on the floor and take great pleasure in it... although I am conscientious about it and don't drop it anywhere near the rest of the shite in the gutter, just in case it starts a fire.

[Andy67]

Why should "society" provide ashtrays for the lazy fuckers. Dog owners carry a bag around for their dogs to shit in when on walkies. Whats the difference?

One more thing woody, by association you called me a lazy fucker. Tell me what makes you so special ?

[ducatilover]

Place your bets:
Ducatilover is likely to die from:
Motorcycle riding.
Cigarette smoking.
Walking.
Eating babies spleen smoothies.
Having free will.
Car crash.
Freak accident, like slipping on dog poo while picking up a smoke butt and putting an iron fence post through the brain.

<_<

[Flip]

One more thing woody, by association you called me a lazy fucker. Tell me what makes you so special ?

Well he is not the one who is going to be paying $100 bucks for a packet of smokes in the next few years for a start.

[Flip]

Place your bets:
Ducatilover is likely to die from:
Motorcycle riding.
Cigarette smoking.
Walking.
Eating babies spleen smoothies.
Having free will.
Car crash.
Freak accident, like slipping on dog poo while picking up a smoke butt and putting an iron fence post through the brain.

<_<

Statisically you are more likely to die of coronary disease or butter poisioning than smoking. However you are twice as likely of getting coronary diesease if you smoke and in this user pays world, not being able to pay, at $100 a pack for a bypass.

[Andy67]

Well he is not the one who is going to be paying $100 bucks for a packet of smokes in the next few years for a start.

Agreed, at least I can afford it. Now fuck off.

[ducatilover]

Statisically you are more likely to die of coronary disease or butter poisioning than smoking. However you are twice as likely of getting coronary diesease if you smoke and in this user pays world not being able to pay for a bypass.

But, I own two motorybicycleses, so I'm going to crash and die tomorrow, regardless of my smoking. :nono:

[Woodman]

One more thing woody, by association you called me a lazy fucker. Tell me what makes you so special ?

Well I don't drop my litter on the ground after I finish with it. Yes ciggy butts are litter.

You may dispose of yours correctly so good onya for that.

[Andy67]

Well I don't drop my litter on the ground after I finish with it. Yes ciggy butts are litter.

You may dispose of yours correctly so good onya for that.

Good enough woody, truce.

Cheers Andy

[Andy67]

Statisically you are more likely to die of coronary disease or butter poisioning than smoking. However you are twice as likely of getting coronary diesease if you smoke and in this user pays world, not being able to pay, at $100 a pack for a bypass.

Holy shit can't believe I missed this gem. Have you been on the piss mate?

[superman]

I was always expecting the tobacco companies to be the ones to come up with a cure for cancer the fastest. Nothing's worse for them than dying regular customers...

[SMOKEU]

I love droppin my fag ends on the floor and take great pleasure in it... although I am conscientious about it and don't drop it anywhere near the rest of the shite in the gutter, just in case it starts a fire.

By "fag ends", you mean "roaches"; correct?

[p.dath]

Bugger the cigarettes. I'm more worried about petrol costing $100/litre ... it's just a matter of how long.

[jasonu]

Dog owners what planet are you on ? There are posties in this city who refuse to deliver mail and you think they pick up shit , you sunshine are having a laugh :doh:

Eh? Care to reword this so it makes some sort of sense or point.

[short-circuit]

One more thing woody, by association you called me a lazy fucker. Tell me what makes you so special ?

Your "needs" make you the "special" one. Oh, that's right - you were charcoal by page 4.

[Andy67]

Eh? Care to reword this so it makes some sort of sense or point.

Yeah ok. Not all smokers flick their butts around just like not all dog owners pick up their dog shit. That's the point.

In Auckland and possibly some other places dogs are not owned exclusively by good and caring owners. They run in packs, uncontrolled to the extent that mail delivery , couriers , meter readers etc refuse to enter some streets where the problem is out of control.

[Andy67]

Your "needs" make you the "special" one. Oh, that's right - you were charcoal by page 4.

Posting holocaust images gives me a pretty good idea of what sort of prick you are.

[short-circuit]

Posting holocaust images gives me a pretty good idea of what sort of prick you are.

That was a reference to idiots suggesting that smokers dying early saves the country money and that, therefore smoking should be encouraged for reasons of economics....Keep up n00b, there is no scarcasm smiley in here

[nzmikey]

Looks like I will end up with a conviction at some stage then ....... if the price starts getting stupid (e.g. $50 for a 30gm ) then I know a dairy that is going to get ripped off .

[Andy67]

That was a reference to idiots suggesting that smokers dying early saves the country money and that, therefore smoking should be encouraged for reasons of economics....Keep up n00b, there is no scarcasm smiley in here

Agreed given the state gets use of funds for many years in most cases before medical care is generally required. Let's face it we all die, some quicker than others and many requiring long term care anyway, smoker or not. Still, poor choice of image irrespective of context.

Haha keep up? Wondered how long it would be before the noob came out. You are too easy bro.

[nodrog]

http://s1.hubimg.com/u/1782132_f248.jpg

[oldrider]

Personal dilemma for me! I don't like the way they (Gov't etc) have treated smoking and smokers freedom of choice but I do like the results so far!

Making tobacco products more expensive creates greater opportunity for criminals ... the higher the cost the greater the return!

There are more important things to spend time/$$$ on now than beating up on an already dying (pun intended) industry and personal behaviour!

Females astound me, despite all the solid evidence against smoking ... more and more of them appear to be taking it up!!! :weird:

Pre WW2 onward, smoking was heavily advertised as "cool" ... post Helen Clark's (Labour) government it's heavily advertised as "fool", IMHO :clap: (Good result so far!)

[willytheekid]

WOW!

Some pure hatred for smokers being displayed here.

I smoke!...not much, but I enjoy a puff in the weekends (30gram lasts me over 2 weeks)
But I understand the discust for the litter ciggy butts make (I hate it too!...so I make an effort not to be part of the cause)
I even understand the second hand smoke issue...no-one likes that.

BUT!

As far as the "figures" some of you are banding around :no:...ACC did the exact same thing!--twist the facts and figures to suit there means.(you managed to notice when it was something that effected YOU!...but not this time...NOOOO)
As far as the COST to NZ :laugh:...are you fucking kidding!, just look at effects and cost alcohol has upon this country...then look at obesity and the costs this incurs....then sugar, coffee..the list goes on & on and keeps changing.
Should we allow the Govn't to ban YOUR rights to decide to have a beer and a burger after your heavily taxed day at work?....should we let them ban sugar! (No fucking joke!...just look at what they want to do with that stuff abroad)...what about fat people?...what about those damn MOTORCYCLISTS!...they cost alot according to the FACTS!...should we ban peoples rights to ride them?

So you can stop being so damn hypocritical!, becasue most of you make decisions that cost the nation as well, most of you like to induldge in "dangerous" activivitys or food & drink intake that has been proven to adversly effect your health.

The simple fact is...smoking is a choice!, I made a choice to smoke...just like I made choice to cut down, as I did to ride bikes...as you have the right to make decisions and choices based on your ability to think for yourself and make the life choices you see fit...because this ISN'T about smoking anymore!...its about control!

...so enjoy that beer and burger!, cos your time will come!...your choices and rights WILL be next!...and then you can see how it feels to pay excessive tax for years to "supposedly" cover the "cost" and ensure your habit is not impacting the nation...just to be then told, nahhh...sorry banning it LOL...but its for your own good!...honest! :tugger:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gcA0ZuKGkI8/TPFKlaHy-pI/AAAAAAAAJT4/aE1T6VnY75w/s1600/nanny-state.jpg

[nodrog]

http://cache2.artprintimages.com/LRG/61/6110/CUZF100Z.jpg

[mashman]

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[scumdog]

Do you think they will actually be able to put the price up to $100 a packet? Or are they dreaming?


I don't give a fuck - it won't worry me.

At present one packet of smokes is equal in price to one and a half gallons of petrol, that's the bottom line for me.

[Madness]

They'll be banning smoking in cars next. Good luck with policing that one Scummy.

[mashman]

They'll be banning smoking in cars next. Good luck with policing that one Scummy.

Aye... they'll ban smoking cigarettes in cars and people will move on to pipes

[scumdog]

WOW!

Some pure hatred for smokers being displayed here.

...so enjoy that beer and burger!, cos your time will come!...your choices and rights WILL be next!...and then you can see how it feels to pay excessive tax for years to "supposedly" cover the "cost" and ensure your habit is not impacting the nation...just to be then told, nahhh...sorry banning it LOL...but its for your own good!...honest!

Some pure hatred for the smoking critics being displayed here...

And in my line of work it's not people that are just smokers I deal with - it's the whole smokes-junkfood-booze mix:yes:

Funny how those least able to afford the cost that seem most hooked with smoking eh?<_<

(an observation - not many criminal shitheads don't smoke.)

And as far as the booze goes? - ban it tomorrow, I wouldn't care, junkfood likewise...:bleh:

[mashman]

Some pure hatred for the smoking critics being displayed here...

That's coz you fuckin deserve it!



And in my line of work it's not people that are just smokers I deal with - it's the whole smokes-junkfood-booze mix:yes:

Funny how those least able to afford the cost that seem most hooked with smoking eh?<_<

(an observation - not many criminal shitheads don't smoke.)

And as far as the booze goes? - ban it tomorrow, I wouldn't care, junkfood likewise...:bleh:

They can afford it. Why not ban food for people who don't have a job or just kill people who don't have a job?.. but you display the typical attitude that the TPTB cherish and absolutely crave in their servants... you should apply for the Area Commander job, if you aren't already that is.

[AD345]

Well, as a smoker for the last 30 years I have a proposition

Give me back all of the tax that I have paid on cigarettes over the last 3 decades and I will happily pay for any and all healthcare costs for myself and my entire family

Otherwise, fuck off

[Woodman]

Few years back one of my team came into my office and asked me for a pay rise. I suggested he give up smoking a pack a day because that would save him over $100 a week, and would also make him more healthy so would take less or no unpaid sick leave.

I meant it as good advice. :facepalm:

[Woodman]

Well, as a smoker for the last 30 years I have a proposition

Give me back all of the tax that I have paid on cigarettes over the last 3 decades and I will happily pay for any and all healthcare costs for myself and my entire family

Otherwise, fuck off

But you have willingly been paying that tax so why should we?

[AD345]

But you have willingly been paying that tax so why should we?

Nonsensical post makes no sense

[scumdog]

That's coz you fuckin deserve it!



They can afford it. Why not ban food for people who don't have a job or just kill people who don't have a job?.. but you display the typical attitude that the TPTB cherish and absolutely crave in their servants... you should apply for the Area Commander job, if you aren't already that is.

You smokers are a tetchy lot, ain't ya!:bleh:

And I was just saying it as I see it, did I say something not true???<_<.

When you deal with so many losers on a day to day basis you can't help but notice these things ya know...

[BMWST?]

Yep sure pays for a few hospital beds I'm sure, far more than are needed at any one time to treat smoking related illness.....


dont bet on it.I was in the wellington cardio thoracic ward a lot for a month last year.Patients there seem to be pretty evenly split between smokers having sections of lungs removed and middle aged men having heart by passes.
overheard....
patient has just come back from icu after operation
Doctor."when did you give up smoking"
Patient "This morning"

[mashman]

You smokers are a tetchy lot, ain't ya!:bleh:

And I was just saying it as I see it, did I say something not true???<_<.

When you deal with so many losers on a day to day basis you can't help but notice these things ya know...

Only if you remove my cigs :eek:.

Not at all, because that's the way you see it... ergo those who smoke, eat shitty food and drink are more likely to be criminals? As mentioned, there's a definite alignment in thinking there with your clean living bosses bosses... you'll go along way :msn-wink:

[scumdog]

Not at all, because that's the way you see it... ergo those who are criminals are more likely to smoke, eat shitty food and drink

You had the wrong end of the stick - all fixed now!!:niceone:

(Glad to oblige...:msn-wink:)

[Harry the Barstard]

I think it crazy how our freedoms are slowly being eroded.

Whenever the govt tries to do away with something its always something that involves a minority. This means there is always just a little bit of an outcry....nothing too unpopular. The rest of the country just sits back and lets it happen, shit it wont effect me.., so I'm fine with it.

It reminds me when my friend and i went turkey shooting on my mates dads farm in Rotorua. There were three or four turkeys on this fence, one on each fench post in a nice straight line. We were using compound bows, so after a few misses, as it was the first time we had used these compound bows (on loan) we shot a turkey. It flies from the fence post that it was standing on and the arrow buries its self into the grassy hill behind the fence. Turkey makes a lil protest/expresses its annoyance at being shot with a hunting arrow then dies. The other turkeys turn their heads take a look at it, hear the protest, most likely think that they are glad that they didn't get shot by a hunting arrow, then turn their heads back and carry on looking into space as if nothing had happened. So we shot another turkey. It was a good xmas.

NZ is full of Turkeys!

[mashman]

You had the wrong end of the stick

That's coz there was shit at the other end :bleh:


I think it crazy how our freedoms are slowly being eroded.

Whenever the govt tries to do away with something its always something that involves a minority. This means there is always just a little bit of an outcry....nothing too unpopular. The rest of the country just sits back and lets it happen, shit it wont effect me.., so I'm fine with it.

It reminds me when my friend and i went turkey shooting on my mates dads farm in Rotorua. There were three or four turkeys on this fence, one on each fench post in a nice straight line. We were using compound bows, so after a few misses, as it was the first time we had used these compound bows (on loan) we shot a turkey. It flies from the fence post that it was standing on and the arrow buries its self into the grassy hill behind the fence. Turkey makes a lil protest/expresses its annoyance at being shot with a hunting arrow then dies. The other turkeys turn their heads take a look at it, hear the protest, most likely think that they are glad that they didn't get shot by a hunting arrow, then turn their heads back and carry on looking into space as if nothing had happened. So we shot another turkey. It was a good xmas.

NZ is full of Turkeys!

ha ha ha ha haaaaaaaaaaaa :niceone:

[Flip]

I think it crazy how our freedoms are slowly being eroded.

Whenever the govt tries to do away with something its always something that involves a minority. This means there is always just a little bit of an outcry....nothing too unpopular. The rest of the country just sits back and lets it happen, shit it wont effect me.., so I'm fine with it.

It reminds me when my friend and i went turkey shooting on my mates dads farm in Rotorua. There were three or four turkeys on this fence, one on each fench post in a nice straight line. We were using compound bows, so after a few misses, as it was the first time we had used these compound bows (on loan) we shot a turkey. It flies from the fence post that it was standing on and the arrow buries its self into the grassy hill behind the fence. Turkey makes a lil protest/expresses its annoyance at being shot with a hunting arrow then dies. The other turkeys turn their heads take a look at it, hear the protest, most likely think that they are glad that they didn't get shot by a hunting arrow, then turn their heads back and carry on looking into space as if nothing had happened. So we shot another turkey. It was a good xmas.

NZ is full of Turkeys!

262716

What more can I say.

[willytheekid]

Some pure hatred for the smoking critics being displayed here...

And in my line of work it's not people that are just smokers I deal with - it's the whole smokes-junkfood-booze mix:yes:

Funny how those least able to afford the cost that seem most hooked with smoking eh?<_<

(an observation - not many criminal shitheads don't smoke.)

And as far as the booze goes? - ban it tomorrow, I wouldn't care, junkfood likewise...:bleh:

<_<....hay thanks for labeling me a criminal shithead who is showing hatred to others scummy
You drink...does that make you a violent alcoholic shithead?...I don't think so, your just a guy who enjoys a sensible drink on his day off)

As I am just a guy who likes LOTS of coffee and the occasional ciggy (I don't even drink!)...that does not make me a criminal or a hater.(please don't "selectively" cut from my posts to suit your own agenda :nono:...I NEVER spread hate!)

as for:
Ban booze?...How about we start by not selling it to children!
Ban Junk food?...:laugh:that includes donuts mate :eek5:

Ride safe scummy & have a good weekend :niceone:

[scumdog]

<_<....hay thanks for labeling me a criminal shithead who is showing hatred to others scummy
You drink...does that make you a violent alcoholic shithead?...I don't think so, your just a guy who enjoys a sensible drink on his day off)

As I am just a guy who likes LOTS of coffee and the occasional ciggy (I don't even drink!)...that does not make me a criminal or a hater.(please don't "selectively" cut from my posts to suit your own agenda :nono:...I NEVER spread hate!)

as for:
Ban booze?...How about we start by not selling it to children!
Ban Junk food?...:laugh:that includes donuts mate :eek5:

Ride safe scummy & have a good weekend :niceone:

Settle-petal, ya got the wrong end of the stick, just like Mashman!

Eating junkfood, boozing and smoking does not necessarily mean you're a criminal shithead.

But criminal shitheads TEND to in the majority be boozing smokers (especially the smoking...) who eat crap tucker and junk-food.

[Harry the Barstard]

262716

What more can I say.

Im glad you enjoyed it.

[Andy67]

dont bet on it.I was in the wellington cardio thoracic ward a lot for a month last year.Patients there seem to be pretty evenly split between smokers having sections of lungs removed and middle aged men having heart by passes.
overheard....
patient has just come back from icu after operation
Doctor."when did you give up smoking"
Patient "This morning"

Pretty damn sad all around really, I don't know a single smoker including myself who does not regret starting. I guess the sentiments expressed in this thread shows how polarised opinions are on the subject. Smokers are the modern day lepers and I can't help wondering who's next.

I am not convinced anyone really knows the true financial and social costs from smoking but either way it's encouraging to look at the kids of today and see how few of them are taking it up.I guess if I have to pay more to make this drug less accessible then so be it.

My mates all took this up a long time ago, somewhat trapped now between addiction and the rising cost which despite my earlier posts do have a significant impact on finances. 20 years of contributions to the government coffers, on top of what I already pay, probably means I will have to work a few more years to afford a decent retirement and leave something for my kids.

Pisses me actually, the whole situation sucks.

[Andy67]

Settle-petal, ya got the wrong end of the stick, just like Mashman!

Eating junkfood, boozing and smoking does not necessarily mean you're a criminal shithead.

But criminal shitheads TEND to in the majority be boozing smokers (especially the smoking...) who eat crap tucker and junk-food.

Real crims wear suits mate and destroy thousands of lives. Those other turkeys are pissing around the edges.

[MIZXR]

Actually I think you'll find more crims drink alcohol.

[oldrider]

Nonsensical post makes no sense

Err ... Can you show us a nonsensical post that "does make sense"? :confused:

[Woodman]

Smokers should be encouraged to join the fire brigade.

Because they really enjoy breathing in smoke it would save heaps on breathing apparatus.

[oldrider]

Settle-petal, ya got the wrong end of the stick, just like Mashman!

Eating junkfood, boozing and smoking does not necessarily mean you're a criminal shithead.

But criminal shitheads TEND to in the majority be boozing smokers (especially the smoking...) who eat crap tucker and junk-food.

Sort of like ... "All Muslims are not terrorists but most terrorists seem to be Muslim" ... kinda thing! :niceone: OK, I'll buy that! :yes:

[Madness]

Smokers should be encouraged to join the fire brigade.

Because they really enjoy breathing in smoke it would save heaps on breathing apparatus.

I'm not sure many of us would pass the fitness test.

[Andy67]

Smokers should be encouraged to join the fire brigade.

Because they really enjoy breathing in smoke it would save heaps on breathing apparatus.

Maybe mate , most wouldn't be nearly fit enough. It's not the smoke, it's the nicotine hit...

[scumdog]

I am not convinced anyone really knows the true financial and social costs from smoking but either way it's encouraging to look at the kids of today and see how few of them are taking it up.I guess if I have to pay more to make this drug less accessible then so be it.

.

Sadly what I've noticed is the do nothing-go nowhere's who are least likely to contribute much to society (not just financially) seem to have a higher percentage of smokers in their midst than the go to work and go to higher education types...just my 2-cent observation

[Madness]

Image taken from http://tttt.ru/ There's some funky brands amongst that lot. Death is one I particularly like, although I suspect they taste like shit.

http://www.tttt.ru/12092.jpghttp://www.tttt.ru/25607.jpg

[Andy67]

Sadly what I've noticed is the do nothing-go nowhere's who are least likely to contribute much to society (not just financially) seem to have a higher percentage of smokers in their midst than the go to work and go to higher education types...just my 2-cent observation

If you have financial trouble then you have a problem, if you smoke then you have 2 problems...

I don't run into that many CEOs smoking in doorways downtown. 70 well paid professionals in my office, one smoker.....used to be 2 but my buddy shifted.

Your observations echo mine.

[Andy67]

Image taken from http://tttt.ru/ There's some funky brands amongst that lot. Death is one I particularly like, although I suspect they taste like shit.

]


Yep I'll take the death ones too, superior ironic theme. Who cares what they taste like if the price is right.

[Pussy]

Your observations echo mine.

If you really committ yourself to it, it's not TOO difficult to quit. I used to go through 2 x 50 gram packets of tobacco a week. Decided I had enough. Kicked it in to touch. You do have to be 100% ready to do it, but.

[Andy67]

If you really committ yourself to it, it's not TOO difficult to quit. I used to go through 2 x 50 gram packets of tobacco a week. Decided I had enough. Kicked it in to touch. You do have to be 100% ready to do it, but.

Far out mate you were a champion too. I'm hearing you, done them all (methods and meds) and the monster has always returned. Im not beaten yet though ....

[Pussy]

Far out mate you were a champion too. I'm hearing you, done them all (methods and meds) and the monster has always returned. Im not beaten yet though ....

I still chew some gum. I tried a few times over the years, and always seemed to drift back in to it. But then got the REAL commitment. Been a few years now. I will NEVER have even 1 puff on a smoke again. At my old consumption, I would be shelling out about $115.00 per week including papers and filters. Bugger that!

[scumdog]

I still chew some gum. I tried a few times over the years, and always seemed to drift back in to it. But then got the REAL commitment. Been a few years now. I will NEVER have even 1 puff on a smoke again. At my old consumption, I would be shelling out about $115.00 per week including papers and filters. Bugger that!

$115???

About 50+litres of petrol!:msn-wink:

[Pussy]

$115???

About 50+litres of petrol!:msn-wink:

Exactly! Only one person in the team I work in smokes now. Looks a bit of a hassle to bugger off outside for a durry!
I have noticed the saving.

[Andy67]

I still chew some gum. I tried a few times over the years, and always seemed to drift back in to it. But then got the REAL commitment. Been a few years now. I will NEVER have even 1 puff on a smoke again. At my old consumption, I would be shelling out about $115.00 per week including papers and filters. Bugger that!

Alan Carr ?

I spend a bit more than that ashamed to say.....

A few years is a good sold effort, I once cracked after 3 but sounds like you've got your head around it.

Cheers Andy

[Pussy]

I did borrow the Alan Carr book... but didn't even open it. I was just ready. I still enjoy the aroma of Port Royal... but not enough to be tempted to start again.
I hope you can reach my level of bloody-mindedness! Happy to be a quit buddy if you want.

[Andy67]

I did borrow the Alan Carr book... but didn't even open it. I was just ready. I still enjoy the aroma of Port Royal... but not enough to be tempted to start again.
I hope you can reach my level of bloody-mindedness! Happy to be a quit buddy if you want.

Thanks Pussy that's bloody decent of you. :niceone:

[Pussy]

Thanks Pussy that's bloody decent of you. :niceone:

No probs, man. It's a fucken neat feeling to be free of the smokes. Happy to encourage someone else to do the same.

[oldrider]

I quit smoking, stayed away from clubs and pubs because of the smoke and ended up quitting drinking! (two vices killed with one stone) :wings:

Now sex! ..... I had no intention of ever quitting that one so God rewarded me by taking care of that one himself! :facepalm:

See! ...... If behave yourself in this world, you will be rewarded accordingly! :rolleyes: Yeah right! :mellow:

[Bassmatt]

I quit smoking, stayed away from clubs and pubs because of the smoke and ended up quitting drinking! (two vices killed with one stone) :wings:

Now sex! ..... I had no intention of ever quitting that one so God rewarded me by taking care of that one himself! :facepalm:

See! ...... If behave yourself in this world, you will be rewarded accordingly! :rolleyes: Yeah right! :mellow:

Oh, you got married? :msn-wink:

[The Lone Rider]

I havent read all the previous posts, but if there was some way to pay $100 for an entire treatment scheme to get someone off smoking, I'd pay.

You can grow tobacco in NZ. A guy at work does - full drying thing and dicer. Says it works pretty good; and probably goes hand in hand with his booze production.

[Woodman]

So the grow your own guy is not paying any extra into the health system to cover his probable ill health due to smoking the filthy things.

What a selfish prick.

[ducatilover]

So the grow your own guy is not paying any extra into the health system to cover his probable ill health due to smoking the filthy things.

What a selfish prick.

Just like those fucking dirt bikers.

[St_Gabriel]

I havent read all the previous posts, but if there was some way to pay $100 for an entire treatment scheme to get someone off smoking, I'd pay.

You can grow tobacco in NZ. A guy at work does - full drying thing and dicer. Says it works pretty good; and probably goes hand in hand with his booze production.

Subsidized drugs, subsidized gum, subsidized patches. Walked out of the chemist with a bag full of stuff and it cost me less than 20 bucks. I was prepared to pay full price for my drugs as I dont have a health care card thingy but it didnt matter, you get it subsidized.

Got my own motivation to give up (told myself I would get a licence and buy a bike), which was a way to stop myself having a sneaky puff and reverting to old habits. After half a week of the drugs I didnt even feel like a cigarette but I still "forced" myself to smoke for the first week like you are meant to.

And my current stats are:
I have been quit for 1Y 10M 3W 4D 19h 46m (695 days). I have saved $10,829.30 by not smoking 20,178 cigarettes. My Quit Date was 6/4/2010 10:30 PM. The cost stats make for some very scary reading (and great justification for upgrades)