Gisborne’s amended Alcohol Control Bylaw now in force after review

Gisborne's amended Alcohol Control Bylaw bans liquor consumption in all public places within this zone, including east of the Taruheru River and the Cenotaph. Image / Gisborne District Council

Gisborne District Council’s amended Alcohol Control Bylaw, which introduces new alcohol ban areas in the city, came into effect on Wednesday this week.

The bylaw regulates the consumption, possession and bringing of alcohol into public places across the district.

In addition to existing ban areas in locations including the city centre, Midway, Te Araroa, Ruatōria, Tokomaru Bay and Tolaga Bay, alcohol will be prohibited in public places, including east of the Taruheru River and the Cenotaph. The area around Kaiti Memorial Park, Kaiti Hub and outside Kaiti School is also under a ban.

The bylaw also bans alcohol consumption in the area around Kaiti Memorial Park, Kaiti Hub and the area outside Kaiti School. Image / Gisborne District Council

Director of internal partnerships and protection at the council, James Baty, said the changes reflect community input. The aim was to reduce alcohol-related harm and support community wellbeing.

“We’ve taken steps to strengthen the bylaw where people told us it was needed most,” Baty said.

“These changes will support safer public spaces in areas where families, tamariki and rangatahi gather.”

Following a statutory review earlier this year, a total of 39 submissions were received during April.

“There was strong support shown for all proposals.”

• 77% supported extending the city centre ban area.
• 80% supported creating a new ban area in Kaiti.

“The bylaw does not apply to licensed premises or the lawful transportation of unopened alcohol containers,” Baty said.

“Matters relating to alcohol licences are managed under the Local Alcohol Policy 2025.

“New Zealand Police will continue to enforce the ban, and breaches may result in a $250 infringement notice.”

For further information and maps of alcohol ban areas, visit the council’s website.