Quitline spike attributed to new tobacco tax

Quitline has attributed a spike in calls to the new tobacco tax.

More than 100 Bay of Plenty smokers have taken the first step towards kicking the habit since the start of the year.

Quitline reported 42 new registrations in the Lakes District Health Board region this year, with an additional 72 in the Bay of Plenty DHB region between January 1 and 7.

The high number of people quitting is being attributed to the 10 per cent increase in tobacco excise on January 1, Quitline chief executive Paula Snowden said.

"A price increase always prompts smokers to try to quit the addiction.

"This year we've seen big cost increases across most tobacco brands. One of the cheaper packs of 20, for example, has gone up by 21 per cent this year.

"It cost $15 in 2014 and it is now $18.20. That's an extra $3.20 a pack. The cost of one of the cheaper packets of 30g of loose tobacco has increased by $5.60."

There were always reasons people had to quit.

"People have told us that they want to quit for their families and their health. A lot of people have spoken of New Year's resolutions to get fit and healthy. "Others have mentioned things like lower insurance premiums, or just being sick of it."

Nationally 1685 New Zealanders signed up for Quitline support this month.

By signing up to Quitline's website www.quit.org.nz smokers have access to a full quit-smoking support programme.

-Quitline's phone lines are open from 8am to 9.30pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to 7.30pm on Sunday. (0800) 778 778.