WHAT?

Council wishes to address issues of inappropriate, annoying and offensive behaviour arising from alcohol consumption in public places.

Council is proposing to update the Liquor Control Bylaw 2009 with a new proposed 'Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022' to help reduce alcohol related crime and disorder by controlling the possession and consumption of alcohol in public places.  

At the Council Meeting on 28 June 2022, Council resolved to adopt the draft proposed Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022, with the amendment of making it a requirement for any application for a special license to be lodged at least 20 working days prior to the event and any dispensation requests to be received 14 days prior to event. You can view the application pack to apply for a Special License here.

WHY?

It is timely to review and update the existing bylaw to include updates from the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 has come into force. The new proposed bylaw will make it easier for Police enforcement. The following maps clearly outline the boundaries of these Alcohol Free Areas which can be viewed here.

PURPOSE?

The Local Government Act 2022 ('LGA') enables territorial authorities like Council, to make bylaws with the purpose of protecting the public from nuisance, promoting and maintaining public health and safety, and minimising the potential for offensive behaviours in public places. 

The bylaw aims to reduce the incidents of alcohol related crime and disorder through the establishment of alcohol-free areas enabling Police and Council to better promote and maintain public health and safety within the central district. 

WHAT PROBLEMS WILL THE BYLAW RESOLVE?

The main issues of alcohol-related crime and disorder occur within the central district and at both the Kawerau Cemetery and Stoneham Walk.

Police support the proposed Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022 as it provides an effective tool to prevent and manage public nuisance behaviour. Enforcement through the Bylaw is instant. 

Council has determined that reviewing and updating the proposed Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022 is the most appropriate mechanism to address these issues and to enhance public safety and community wellbeing without unduly restricting public rights.

The objective of the Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022 is to help, protect the public from nuisance and promote and maintain public health and safety. It is made under the powers granted to territorial authorities by Part 8 of the Local Government Act 2002.

Statement of Proposal - Summary of Proposed Changes

The key changes of the proposed Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022 are summarised here.

Thank you for your submissions!  

Public Consultation on the proposed Alcohol Control Bylaw has closed as of 5pm 19 August 2022.