We’re working towards a safe, vibrant, inclusive and connected community.
We sought feedback on proposed amendments to our Gambling Class 4 and TAB Venue Policy. This policy regulates the location and number of TAB venues, as well as regulating venues that house gaming machines (Class 4 venues).
Every three years we're required by law to review our policies. At the Horowhenua District Council meeting on 10 November 2021, it was decided to review these policies using the Special Consultative Procedure in accordance with the Local Government Act 2002.
Horowhenua District Council will keep and continue its ‘sinking lid’ policy, so when one gambling venue closes, a new one can’t replace it, meaning we're gradually reducing these type of venues in our area.
What was proposed to change?
- In the TAB Venue Policy we proposed to keep the current arrangement where one standalone TAB venue can be in the district, and remove reference to the Racing Act 2003 which was repealed in August 2020 by the Racing Industry Act 2020.
- In the proposed changes to our Gambling Class 4 Venue Policy we clarified when the relocation policy applies. When or if gambling businesses merge, the new business will only be able to keep two thirds of the combined gambling machines. This means if two businesses join together and they have thirty machines, they will only be able to keep twenty machines. This is another way to help us to gradually reduce the amount of gambling machines in our district.
- We also proposed the introduction of new fees when a business relocates to a new venue or if businesses decide to merge.
Submissions on the proposal closed on 19 December 2021.
Policies adopted by Council
Both the Gambling Class 4 Policy and TAB Venue Policy were adopted by Council on 13 April 2022 and are effective from 14 April 2022.