Review of Gambling Venues Policy

This policy determines if Class 4 gambling (‘pokie machines’) and TAB venues can be established in Napier and if so, where they can be located and how many venues and machines are allowed in Napier.

Our current policy is known as a cap policy. It means that we have capped the number of venues (to a maximum of 20 venues), and the total number of machines across all the venues (to a maximum of 320 machines). We also limit new venue locations to city and commercial areas with a cap on the number of venues in Taradale (to a maximum of three venues).  There is also a cap on the number of TAB venues (to a maximum of two).

The controls provided by this policy aim to minimise harm to the community caused by this type of gambling.

Every three years, we have to review the policy and we propose to continue with the cap policy but we are suggesting we reduce the maximum number of machines we can have to the actual number we do have – from 320 to 298. This means no venues can add machines or no new venues can start up – unless one closes down.  A venue that is closing down could transfer its machines to another venue or a new venue in the permitted area under this policy.

We are also keen to hear any ideas from our community about how we could manage or minimise harm caused by gambling in general.

Download the Statement of Proposal 

Tell us what you think 

To have your say please complete our form below. To make a written submission downloading our printable form and post it to Napier City Council, Private Bag 6010, Napier 4142. 

Gambling Venues Policy Submission Form