Philip Morris allegedly pitched draft legislation to Winston Peters

Wednesday 23 July 2025 · 4 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 23 Jul 2025, 11:59am

In this story Winston Peters, NZ First, Casey Costello

Documents released during litigation suggest Philip Morris attempted to secure favourable regulations for its heated tobacco products. The company reportedly reached out to NZ First leader Winston Peters to advantage its IQOS brand. Lobbyists described Peters as being positively disposed to the nicotine industry.

How they headlined it

3h

6:51am9:56am11:59am

1. NZ HeraldWed 23 Jul 2025, 6:51am

   Nicotine lobbyists said Winston Peters was ‘very powerful’ and ‘very industry friendly’ (opens in new tab)

   Also on RNZ (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesWed 23 Jul 2025, 9:56am

   Nicotine lobby targeted 'very industry friendly' Peters (opens in new tab)

3. 1News via RNZWed 23 Jul 2025, 11:59am

   Nicotine lobbyists said Winston Peters was 'very industry friendly' (opens in new tab)