A father's advice to his son enabled him to travel the world playing rugby and to embark on a successful media career.
So says former Maori All Black and television presenter Matua Parkinson in the lead-up to World Smokefree Day 2014 on May 31.
"If you want to be anything in life don't smoke, it's as simple as that. When I was a kid that's what my father told me, that smoking was no good for me and would lead nowhere," says the 36-year-old, who was the youngest of five children.
"He was adamant about it and because of that advice I travelled the world playing rugby and am now exploring New Zealand presenting Hunting Aotearoa. I know I wouldn't be where I am, doing what I am, if I was a smoker. It's about fitness for life. If you want to be a better sportsmen, hunter - or whatever your passion is - you'll only fulfil your potential if you don't smoke.
"I just want to be able to give as many youngsters as possible that same advice. And if they do smoke, simply ask them why?"