Home » Tauranga City Council Introduces ‘Sinking Lid’ Policy
Tauranga City Council Introduces ‘Sinking Lid’ Policy
Recently updated on February 21st, 2019
On 14 March, Tauranga City Council will adopt a new policy for poker machines. According to reports, the ‘sinking lid’ policy will stop any new gaming venues from opening in Tauranga. More so, new pokie machines will not be approved. These measures are expected to help residential areas affected by social deprivation and gambling addiction.
Under existing national index rules, pokie venues cannot be closer than 100 metres from these areas. However, the ‘sinking lid’ policy will also encourage existing venues to move further away. Two new areas listed in the index are Yatton Park and Matapihi. Any venues near these areas will be expected to move under the policy. Of course, no policy is without opposition, and critics have mentioned that removing pokies could reduce revenues.
No measures have been suggested for online gambling right now. But, it’s possible that they could be in the works.
Sinking Lid in Tauranga City
A survey on the Gambling Venues Policy was hosted on the Tauranga City Council’s website from 15 October until 16 November. Results from the survey revealed that 63% of locals voted positively for the policy. More importantly, it has the support of former problem gamblers and gambling addiction treatment services. Since the policy aims to reduce gambling addiction statistics, the positive feedback has boosted some members of the public.
However, community groups have voiced concerns over the policy. These groups receive funding from gaming machine proceeds to help other residents. At the moment, these funds are the main contributions for sport and social groups across New Zealand. Still, the cost for at risk neighbourhoods can’t be ignored.
As an extra measure, the ‘sinking lid’ will be reviewed in three years. Impacts on the community organisations will be addressed as well. At the same time, the Tauranga City Council will also have to review growth areas in Te Tumu and Tauriko in Pāpāmoa.
Taralynn Engels is a seasoned casino news writer with a passion for keeping her readers up-to-date with the latest happenings in the gambling industry. With over five years of professional writing experience, Taralynn has developed a deep understanding of the casino industry and a knack for delivering engaging and informative content. Aside from her in-depth knowledge of the casino industry, Taralynn possesses excellent writing skills that allow her to craft captivating narratives that keep readers hooked until the last word. Her ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in an accessible manner guarantees that her articles are enjoyed by both seasoned casino enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Recently updated on April 17th, 2019Credit card gambling could soon be banned in the United Kingdom. The risks of credit card gambling have been brought forward by the Labour Party. What’s more, the statistics behind the proposal show that citizens spend up to £8.6 billion (NZ$16.65 billion) a year on gambling with credit cards. When […]
Recently updated on April 3rd, 2018Sir Richard Branson has announced the finalisation of a deal that will see the Virgin Group take over the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The Virgin Group did not reveal the sale price. According to reports, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas will open in 2019. The British billionaire […]
Recently updated on August 21st, 2018At this year’s Australasian Gaming Expo, it was revealed that pokies contribute roughly AU$8.32 billion (NZ$9.18 billion) to the economy of Australia. At least AU$5.5 billion (NZ$6.07 billion) went to tax revenues from leading Pokie operators. The survey was conducted on behalf of the Gaming Technologies Association (GTA), who represents […]
Recently updated on August 20th, 2018Christchurch Casino is looking to renew their 15-year license this year, but will first have to wait for community submissions. Additionally, their current finances and operations will be scrutinised through peer reviews. Christchurch Casino is the first of New Zealand’s six casinos to apply for renewal. They have paid an […]
Recently updated on September 9th, 2019 The Star Entertainment Group has been linked to businessman and gambling industry mogul, Stanley Ho. Ho has picked up a bad reputation for himself after authorities learned about his supposed involvement in organised crime. The Star Entertainment Group is rival to one of Australia’s biggest casino operators- Crown Resorts. […]