Gambling policy up for review

As many as 500 people in Wairarapa could be classified as being problem gamblers, with their actions affecting their families, their work and their finances.

The number is based on national statistics that show up to 1.8 per cent of all New Zealanders are problem gamblers.

That's despite turnover figures showing spending on lotteries, poker machines and casino gambling have slipped back and only TAB racing and sports betting is increasing.

In Wairarapa, poker machine numbers in Masterton, Carterton district and South Wairarapa have all reduced since 2003 with Masterton having 116 as of this June , as against 123 in 2003, Carterton 50 (60 in 2003) and South Wairarapa 76 (77 in 2003.)

Collectively nearly $7.3 million was lost through poker machines in the year ended June 30.

The Wairarapa Gambling Venues policy has just been reviewed for the second time since it was adopted by the joint district councils in 2005.

This year councillors Chris Peterson and Lynn Patterson were appointed to review the policy for Masterton district in conjunction with representatives from the two southern councils.

The criteria for review was that the policy must take account of the social impact of gambling in Wairarapa and any other matters considered relevant.

When approved by all three councils the reviewed policy is posted on council websites and advertised in the media so that ratepayers have the chance to lodge submissions on it.

This year's reviewed policy continues previously imposed conditions that do not allow new poker machine venues, except under special circumstances, along with prohibition on an increase in the number of poker machines.

There is also a rule that any poker machines withdrawn from use are not to be replaced.

In a report to Masterton District Council Jan Gerritsen, manager of community services, used information from the department of Internal Affairs to show that problem gamblers are more likely to come from highly deprived neighbourhoods. Maori and Pacific Islanders are more likely than other ethnic groups to develop problem gambling.

Asians, as well as Maori and Pacific Islanders, are likely to harmed by problem casino gambling.

One fifth of adult New Zealanders gamble with most of those likely to buy Lotto tickets, described by the department as a relatively low problem gambling risk.