Fifty short years ago, doctors were fronting promotions of cigarette smoking, saying it was a great way to relax and there was no proof that it was a health risk to human beings.
We now know the truth about the cancer causing effects of inhaling poisonous chemicals. Class action law suits have followed.
Could the same be said about the inhalation of other poisonous chemicals such as hi-cane?
I guess time will tell and the sooner we the innocent public, who are passive inhalers of this pirau poison, are told the truth via scientific studies, the sooner we can stop hi-cane.
Surely, our Bay of Plenty Regional Council, who once carried the name Environment BOP should be doing just that and protecting our environment by scientifically testing hi-cane and its effects. I will be voting for the candidate who promises to do just that.

Tommy ‘Kapai' Wilson, Te Puna.