Smoking Crowe?

Music

13:30 05 April 2006

Russell Crowe has landed himself in hot water for allegedly breaking New Zealand's no smoking laws.

The hot-headed actor is said to have breached the country's no smoking legislation - which bans people from lighting up in public venues - during three performances with his band, The Ordinary Fear of God.

Promoter Brett Eccles claims he saw the 'Gladiator' star puffing away at his first gig, at Leigh, on North Island.

He is quoted on the BBC website as saying: "I saw him smoking, but it was very discreet."

He added: "I'm told he smoked at SkyCity in Auckland and in Wellington."

However, Eccles admitted he wasn't sure the Hollywood star had been told it was illegal to spark up on stage.

Public health officials are now investigating the allegations.

Venue managers could be slapped with fines of up to £1,429 if it turns out the 41-year-old actor did light up.

It's understood Crowe wouldn't be liable under the smoking laws.

(C) BANG Media International