News Release:
Wednesday 25 November 2009

New public places liquor ban comes into effect on Tuesday

Rotorua District Council’s extended Public Places Liquor Ban Bylaw comes into effect on Tuesday [1 December].

The council’s Regulatory and Support Services Manager Jim Nicklin is reminding residents that they need to be aware of the new bylaw which replaces a previous 2002 version.

“The new bylaw significantly increases the areas in the city and suburbs where it will be illegal to possess or consume alcohol.

“The longstanding prohibition of alcohol in the CBD, Government Gardens and Kuirau Park remains, however the new bylaw adopted by Council in August extends that prohibition to other areas. These include most council controlled reserves in Ngongotaha, Western Heights, Koutu, and Fordlands, council owned shopping centres in those suburbs, and one reserve in Lynmore off Selwyn Road which has been a frequent haunt for drinking alcohol.

“In addition a number of streets in Ohinemutu village will become liquor ban areas, at the request of village residents,” he said.

Mr Nicklin pointed out that the bylaw applies only to public places and has no impact on the consumption of alcohol on private property. He said the revised bylaw follows an extensive public consultation programme and reflects increasing community intolerance for the problems caused by the consumption of alcohol in public places, including the discarding of rubbish and glass.

Mr Nicklin suggested that those who wanted to indulge in a public place should be careful to first check whether their choice of location has now become subject to the liquor ban. He said people should be aware that there is a fine of up to $20,000 for breaching bylaw provisions.

“Rotorua Police have indicated that they intend proactively and consistently enforcing the bylaw,” warned Mr Nicklin.

Details of the bylaw can be viewed on the council’s website www.rdc.govt.nz or by contacting the council during office hours.

ENDS

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