MEDIA RELEASE

27 September 2002

Alcohol ban met with approval

The first night of Auckland’s inner city liquor ban passed without incident.

Inspector Kerry Kay of Auckland District Police says that a number of people found drinking on the streets were requested by the police to tip their alcohol out. No arrests were made.

“The majority of people police spoke to about the liquor ban thought it was a very good idea,” he says.

Councillor Noelene Raffills, chair of the council’s Law and Order Committee says the council is delighted with the public’s support of the ban.

The liquor ban is part of Auckland City Council’s wider agenda to make the city a safer, healthier and more enjoyable place.

The police will be taking a common sense approach. People carrying alcohol through the ban area to a private residence or BYO restaurant will not be targeted.

The liquor ban prohibits the drinking of alcohol in public places in the city centre from 9pm to 6am every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening through to Sunday mornings. The ban area will be extended to cover the Viaduct Harbour before the end of next month.

ENDS

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