Smokers are being urged to stub out their cigarette for good.

Following the announcement by the New Zealand Government to continue annual tax increases on tobacco until 2020 as part of Smokefree Aotearoa 2025, smoking is set to become more expensive than ever.

Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service Medical Officer of Health Dr Phil Shoemack says when tobacco addiction is added in to the mix, and with the cost of quality food going up, the challenge of juggling bills is much harder.

'Imagine how much money you could save if you stopped smoking. We're not talking small amounts here. Currently, smoking a pack of 20 a day costs more than $8300 a year.”

Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service is encouraging smokers to quit for good and free up money to spend on quality food and healthy fruit and vegetables instead.

'Cigarettes can have such a hold on people that some will buy them above the necessities,” says Phil.

Quitline provides free assistance to quit smoking, offering a quit pack and support over the phone, online, and by text.

There is also an increasing range of medical products and nicotine therapies available from as little as $5 per product for an 8-week supply.

'Creating healthy smokefree environment and being a positive role model is important so our children can make positive choices.

'Research indicates that children with parents who smoke are three times more likely to become smokers,” says Phil. 'Give up for the future health of your children.”

For help and support to quit smoking, contact your local health provider or doctor or Quitline (0800 778 778 or www.quit.org.nz).