Gambling

Under the Gambling Act 2003, all new class 4 gambling and NZ Racing Board gambling venues require territorial local authority (i.e. city or district council) consent before they can be licensed by the Department of Internal Affairs. Class 4 gambling is defined as any activity that involves the use of a gaming machine outside a casino. Class 4 gaming may only be conducted by a corporate society and only to raise money for community purposes. The Gambling Act also amended the Racing Act 2003 to require that councils adopt a racing board venue policy for their district. The policy must specify whether new New Zealand Racing Board venues (commonly referred to as stand alone TAB agencies) may be established in the city, and if so, where they may be located.

Under the Act, all local authorities must develop policies regarding class 4 venues and board venues while taking into account the views of the community and the social impact of gambling on the local community. Council adopted a Class 4 Gambling and Board Venue Policy on 5 August 2004. It is was reviewed in March 2007 and then as part of the 2011/2012 Annual Plan process and was confirmed by council on 23 June 2011.

The policy's main objectives are to restrict the growth of gambling in the Central Hawke's Bay District and to minimise the harm caused by gambling.

For information on Class 4 Gaming Licensing application, Inspection Fees or any other questions please either e-mail Council or phone on +64 6 857 8060