Recurring temporary major event alcohol bans across the region will be extended to include more venues and surrounding areas after Auckland Council’s Governing Body approved proposed changes to its Alcohol Control Bylaw 2014.
At present, there are recurring temporary event alcohol bans for all major events at Eden Park, concerts at Rarotonga / Mount Smart Stadium and Christmas in the Park and the Lantern Festival at Pukekawa / Auckland Domain.
On Thursday 29 April, the Governing Body voted to amend the Alcohol Control Bylaw 2014 to:
- make a new recurring temporary major event alcohol ban for all major events at Rarotonga / Mount Smart Stadium, Waiōrea / Western Springs Stadium and Outer Fields and Pukekawa / Auckland Domain
- include the Auckland Zoo car park, Te Papapa Train Station and any future fan trails to temporary major event alcohol ban areas.
Councillor Josephine Bartley put forward the recommendations made by the Bylaw Panel following a period of public consultation. She said the proposed changes were about protecting our communities.
“Improving temporary major event alcohol bans will stop people drinking alcohol irresponsibly on their way to, at or after a major event and help prevent the associated disorder that occurs as a result.
“People should be able to attend these wonderful events that bring vibrancy to our city without having to worry about encountering anti-social behaviour caused by groups of people binge drinking.
“The improvements help make it safer for people to travel to and from the events using public transport and prevent the problem from being shifted elsewhere.
“Almost 900 people gave their feedback on the proposed changes and I want to thank each of them for taking the time to do so. I also want to thank Councillor Cathy Casey and IMSB member Glenn Wilcox who were on the hearing panel with me and to all of the council staff who provided their support.”
The changes to the Alcohol Control Bylaw 2014 will come into effect from 1 June 2021.
There are no changes to how alcohol licenses are applied on-site during the events.
