Tauranga City Council is working with New Zealand Police to reduce alcohol harm and make sure the community enjoys a safe, family-friendly holiday season, with the roll out of alcohol-free zones across the city.
Deputy Mayor and Mauao/Mount Maunganui Ward Councillor, Jen Scoular says Tauranga is a much-loved summer destination, with the Mount always a hotspot for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
“With thousands of visitors expected, we’re asking locals to remind friends and whānau that permanent and temporary alcohol-free areas are in place across the city. These zones help create a welcoming environment and support the police to keep everyone safe,” says Cr Scoular.
Senior Sergeant Shannon Clifford, Operations Manager for the Western Bay of Plenty Summer Policing Operations Group, supports that message.
“We’ll be out and about leading up to New Year’s Eve, and on New Year’s Eve itself, enforcing alcohol-free areas and looking after our community. You’ll see more checkpoints and extra Police presence to keep things running smoothly,” he said.
Snr Sgt Clifford is reminding the public that anyone found drinking alcohol in the designated zones – including inside vehicles – faces confiscation of the alcohol and on-the-spot fines.
“It’s a simple message: know the rules before you head out, keep safe, and look out for your mates. If you are caught drinking alcohol in an alcohol-free area, we will take it off you and we can issue fines on the spot.”
“We are working with Tauranga City Council again this year to fence off Hopukiore (Mount Drury) Reserve, including the playground, from December 31. Both areas will reopen for use on the morning of New Year’s Day,” he said.
There will be no public fireworks display at Mount Main Beach on New Year’s Eve.
Maps of permanent and temporary alcohol areas in the city can be found on Council’s website.
