MEDIA RELEASE

11 November 2002

Viaduct liquor ban in force tomorrow

From 9pm tomorrow the public walkways in the American Express Viaduct Harbour will be alcohol free every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.

The central city liquor ban, introduced on 26 September, has been extended to cover this area, which includes Market Square, Te Wero Island and Waitemata Plaza and the adjoining council owned walkways.

Councillor Noelene Raffills, chair of the Law and Order Committee, says the ban is part of the council’s wider agenda to make the city a safer, healthier and more enjoyable place.

“The Viaduct is a great place for a night out in the restaurants and bars. It also needs to be a safe place. We want alcohol kept within licensed premises, and off the public walkways,” she says.

The ban gives the police the authority to stop drinking in public places in the Viaduct Harbour from 9pm to 6am every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through to Sunday morning.

The ban does not cover licensed bars, clubs or restaurants including pavement seating attached to licensed premises. People carrying alcohol through the ban area to a private residence or BYO restaurant will not be targeted.

Auckland’s central city liquor ban was supported by 78% of 113 respondents in a telephone survey conducted last month. Sixty-three percent suggested extensions to the ban.

ENDS

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