http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3215649a10,00.html

Hilary forgot her apple too! Although, not sure what grounds she'd be contesting the fine on! Perhaps famous people's fruit isn't itemised individually on the declaration card?

There's always the possibility of being forgetful. Does the flight crew actually remind passengers to declare and not to bring down fruits, etc. again just before landing?

Chenoa -

Flights into NZ usually show a short film prior to landing and customs regulations are made very clear.

still, pple must be absent minded...

With reference to the link above. Ms Swank is paying way more than the fine to fight the $200 charge for bringing in an apple and an orange. Plus radio stations here are having a field day taking the mickey out of her. Pay the fine and move on.

My brother, who is a NZer, forgot an apple he picked up in Brisbane and he carried it in his briefcase into NZ. He did not like it but he paid the fine.

After all the restrictions are there for a reason.

Cheers

Steve

And to think that only last night I saw an interview with the lady in which she was presented as a down-to-earth girl-next-door with no airs and graces who identifies with the common folk because she grew up in a trailer park, etc. I guess she needs the money.

or the publicity.

Just read the article. Sometimes it's useful, even if a little depressing, to be reminded of the sort of people to whom that sad word "celebrity" becomes attached. Dear, oh bloody dear, isn't it pathetic?