An illicit tobacco expert says it's clear the trade has established a foothold here.

The Government has already created an action group of Customs, police, and health officials - with improved planning and joint operations to fight the illegal trade.

The industry estimates around one in three cigarettes consumed here are illegal.

Former Australian detective Rohan Pike says he's already managed to buy an illegal pack.

"It took me about one minute after landing on Sunday night to find these at a convenience store straight across the road from my hotel."

LISTEN ABOVE

An illicit tobacco expert says it's clear the trade has established a foothold here.
The Government has already created an action group of Customs, police, and health officials - with improved planning and joint operations to fight the illegal trade.
The industry estimates around one in three cigarettes consumed here are illegal.
Former Australian detective Rohan Pike says he's already managed to buy an illegal pack.
"It took me about one minute after landing on Sunday night to find these at a convenience store straight across the road from my hotel."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Rohan Pike: former Australian detective issues warning about illegal tobacco trade growing in New Zealand

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/eedb53b2-d935-48b5-9ec5-b4b800779a3f/transcript