The drop in the duty free tobacco allowance is making a dent in the amount making it through the border.

More than 800 kilograms of tobacco and cigarettes have been left at the border since the reduced allowance came into effect on November 1.

Associate Health Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-liga says the duty free change is another welcome step towards reducing the harm of smoking.

He adds the smoke-free 2025 goal for New Zealand is a challenge, but one that can be achieved with a united effort.

The new duty free allowance is now 50 cigarettes...down from 2001.