Liquor law temporary changes

Council reminds our community that the temporary liquor law changes to operating hours of on- and club- licenced premises during the Rugby World Cup does not revoke the CBD liquor ban in the Public Places Bylaw.

"Under the temporary law change, eligible licensed premises can operate outside of their usual licensing hours to televise live 2015 Rugby World Cup games," said John Anderson, Council's Environmental Health Manager. "However this does not mean that consumption of liquor can occur outside of premises in the CBD areas."

The liquor ban areas in the Putāruru and Tokoroa CBD areas are still in effect.

"This means that while premises have special permission to open their doors at unusual hours, liquor must remain inside the premises," explained Mr Anderson. "In other words, if you wish to vacate the premises to get something from your car or have a cigarette, you must leave any alcohol you are drinking at the time inside the premises."

"From time to time Council's CBD litter contractor notices an increase in liquor bottles outside premises in the CBD areas and Council receives complaints from other business owners about an excess of bottles that they themselves sometimes clean up," continued Mr Anderson.

Council reminds rugby enthusiasts to celebrate responsibly during this period. It is against the law to take liquor out of a bar or pub and continue drinking on the footpath, service lane or alleyway outside the premises.

"We ask that patrons be responsible, respect the rules associated with this temporary law change and respect the CBD liquor bans that remain in place," said Deputy Mayor Shattock. "Our Liquor Ban Bylaw is monitored by the Police."

"Our Council is very fortunate to have the support of many liquor premises owners, the Police and public health agencies through the South Waikato Liquor Accord that meets regularly to discuss issues and opportunities to work together," said Deputy Mayor Jenny Shattock who is chair of the Liquor Licensing Committee.

Council is liaising directly with liquor premises owners around the district on the detail supporting the Rugby World Cup temporary law change.

If people have questions about the temporary law change, visit www.justice.govt.nz/policy/sale-and-supply-of-alcohol/2015-rugby-world-cup. ends words: 357