Liquor bans in place around holiday hotspots

Police say they will take an “educative approach” to the liquor bans in place around the city and district as the New Year celebrations loom. The ban zones have been signposted like this. Picture by Liam Clayton

Permanent and temporary liquor bans are in place for the city and district leading up to the New Year celebrations, with designated areas where consuming alcohol in a public place will be a “no-no”.

“Tairāwhiti will see a significant influx of people over the next couple of days as holiday-makers and those attending Rhythm and Vines come into the area,” police said.

“We feel it’s prudent for us to be proactive in providing the public information about the location and timing of those liquor bans.”

The ban areas are as follows:

A permanent alcohol ban exists in the Gisborne CBD, bordered by Roebuck Road, the southern bank of the Taruheru River, the western bank of the Turanganui River and the northern bank of the Waikanae Creek.

A temporary alcohol ban exists at Midway Beach from 8am on December 27 until 6pm on January 1, 2024.

A temporary alcohol ban exists in the area surrounding the Rhythm and Vines venue. This includes: Gray’s Bush Scenic Reserve and carpark, Gray’s Hill Lookout, Waimata Valley Road, Back Ormond Road from Hansen Road to Matawai Road (SH2), Waihīrere Domain Road, Snowsill Road, Glenelg Road, Kawatiri Road. All roads joining Matawai Road to Back Ormond Road, Lytton West Reserve from 8am on December 27 until 6pm on January 1, 2024.

A temporary alcohol ban will apply for the area of Marina Park and Kelvin Park from 6pm to 11pm on  January 1, 2024, for the Fire in the Sky public fireworks event.

“Signage will be in place reminding the public of liquor bans in those areas,” police said.

“Our staff will take an educative approach to enforcing these bans.

“The purpose of liquor bans is to prevent incidents of disorder and excessive alcohol consumption in public places where families and members of the public are enjoying themselves.”