Media Release: Waikato District Council, 21 October 2014
People have until 21 November to have their say on Waikato District Council’s proposed Local Alcohol Policy and proposed Gambling Venues Policy.
The Local Alcohol Policy will guide where, when and how alcohol can be sold in the Waikato district.
“We have spent a long time developing this proposed policy with the aim of reducing alcohol related harm and making the Waikato district a safer place,” Says Mayor Allan Sanson.
“The proposed policy is a great start but now we need your help to ensure we’ve got the balance right.”
The proposed Local Alcohol Policy includes various tools to help manage the number and location of new licensed premises, such as:
- no new standalone bottle stores in Ngaruawahia, Huntly and Raglan
- maximum trading hours for bars and taverns of 9am to 1am the following day and 9am to 2am the following day on Friday and Saturday for bars and taverns in towns only
- maximum trading hours for cafes, restaurants and function centres of 7am-1am the following day
- maximum trading hours of 9am to 10pm for off-licences
- maximum trading hours of 9am to 1am the following day for club licences
- various discretionary conditions..
The proposed Gambling Venue Policy restricts how many gambling venues and pokie machines are allowed and where they can be located, it includes:
- one set of rules for the Waikato district
- no new pokie venues or TAB Board venues may be established in the district
- a maximum of nine gaming machines can be located at a class 4 venue (such as pubs or clubs).
General Manager Customer Support, Sue Duignan says Council is working hard to ensure the policies have strong community input.
“Both alcohol licensing and gambling are subjects which many people hold strong views on, so it’s vital we get the views of a wide range of residents and organisations.. We encourage you to make a submission and help shape these policies.”
Submissions on the proposed policies can be made until 5pm on Tuesday 21 November, after which they will be discussed at a Council meeting. Hearings for those who wish to present their submission in person are anticipated to be held in late February 2015.
You can view a copy of the statement of proposals and proposed policies at all Council offices and libraries, at www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz, or by phoning 0800 492 452.