Inspired Waitakians get healthy

A tax increase on cigarettes has been a major trigger in the increased number of Waitaki residents who are attempting to quit smoking.

On January 1 there was a 10 per cent price increase, raising the cost of a 20-pack of cigarettes from $14.40 to $16.

The increase came at a time when people were putting New Year's resolutions in place. In the first week of January, 156 people in the southern region phoned Quitline about ditching the habit.

Quitline communications contractor Emma Gilkison said Quitline had seen the number of people phoning double.

As of Monday, 338 people from the southern region had contacted the organisation.

Becoming healthier in 2013 seems to be a trend in the Waitaki district, with more new gym memberships being made.

Oamaru Health and Fitness owner Karen Clement said 15 people had joined the gym since January 1.

"We have had more this year than other years," Ms Clement said. A new course, and being open 24/7, were likely to be behind the increase.

The Waitaki Community Recreation Centre also recorded an increase in new memberships for the new year. Manager Louise Fangupo said there were 10 new members, as well as 10 others renewing their memberships.

"Also, even though school hasn't gone back yet, seven kids have signed up for the high school prices," she said.

Mrs Fangupo said they generally saw an increase in motivation in the new year.

"The weather is nice and people are more inspired," she said.