Far North Campaign

The period for consultation on the draft gambling venue policy is currently underway and will end on 7 July 2010.
 
In 2009, over $15 million was lost in the Far North through pokie machines (outside casinos). The Far North District currently has 31 venues and 380 machines. From the $15 million lost, less than $3 million was returned to the Far North community via grants from the pokie trusts. That's only $1 returned for each $5 lost.

You can help us keep the number of pokie machines down in the Far North.

The Council is currently seeking feedback on a number of policy options, including a policy that will allow the relocation of pokie machines.

In the last policy review in 2007, the council received over 100 submissions requesting even greater restriction on pokie machines, however the proposed policy options in this review do not acknowledge this.

The Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand support a Sinking Lid Policy (this means the number of pokie machines and venues in the Far North District will be 'capped' and that cap will further reduce if a venues closes down).  It also means that venues are unable to relocate.

We want the council to adopt a Sinking Lid Policy. This will permanently reduce the number of pokie machines in the Far North District and minimise the harm caused by problem gambling.

Help us by supporting our campaign!

To view the proposed draft gambling venue policy on the Far North District Council's website click here

For help with making a written submission view our template here
The date for oral submissions/hearings is 29 July 2010.

For further information please contact Kristel Modderman Ph (09) 369 0624 or email kristel.modderman@pgfnz.org.nz