FAQs

These polices were combined into one consultation to achieve cost-efficiencies and streamlined decision making.  

Community grants from pokie machines aren't tied to the district where the machine is located. The gaming societies decide how to distribute those dollars and are mandated to return 40% of their profit. 

The amount of profit per pokie machine has continued to rise, regardless of the number of machines. In making this recommendation, council considered the potential impact on community funding – particularly given current constraints on other grants sources. Other examples where a sinking lid has been put in place have not led to an immediate or drastic reduction in funding, due to increases in profit per gaming machine and the continuation of existing licences.

There are different views on this. Gaming societies claim it does and argue that having venues with trained staff allows for interventions that aren't available online. Research provided from The Problem Gambling Foundation found most people addicted to gambling machines did not transfer to an online addiction. 

In making this recommendation Council noted that there are changes underway in central Government to regulate online gambling.

Pokie machines are treated as a distinct form of gambling under the Gambling Act as they are considered a uniquely harmful form of gambling, due to high rates of addiction.  

Central Otago's data on gambling-related addiction assistance or interventions sits slightly below the national average. However, there are no specialised gambling services in the district, other than a national phoneline. The nearest intervention service is located in Dunedin. It is not possible to interpret if the lower level of assistance represents a lower level of harm, or lower level of support.

A 'Standalone TAB' is a designated TAB facility, i.e. in its own building, not as part of a bar or restaurant. There are none currently in Central Otago, but a policy on 'Standalone TAB' facilities is legally required in the event that one opens.

No. Licenses are specific to the location and cannot be transferred to another location.

This policy is a legislative option. Our community have historically chosen to keep one in place in the event a psychoactive substance is approved in the future. This policy restricts where the substances could be sold.

Yes. However, the purpose of this policy is to reduce anti-social behaviour associated with public consumption, rather then possession of alcohol in the liquor ban areas.

The current and proposed restrictions are in place to prevent and manage disorderly behaviour involving alcohol, and to assist in minimising alcohol-related harm. Anti-social behaviour in the town centres, and during specific holiday periods or Blossom Festival, may also impact on the reputation of the district as a tourist and holiday destination.