Gambling policies

We’re reviewing the policies used to help manage gambling in the Kāpiti district. We're required to review these two policies every three years.

What they are

Our two gambling policies are:

Class 4 Gambling Policy 2019 – covering the use of gaming machines (pokies) in the district, including:
- the number and location of Class 4 venues
- restrictions on the maximum number
- relocation of gaming machines.
TAB Venue Gambling Policy 2019 – covering TAB venues, including:
- whether new venues can be established in a district
- where they may be located.

These aim to:

reduce gambling harm
control the growth of gambling
ensure gambling venues are appropriately located
ensure gambling venue consents are considered and issued in line with policies.

What's happening

Right now we’re gathering data and information from a range of sources to build a picture of the impacts of gambling in the community. This includes various data sources and key stakeholders.

Next steps

Once we have a clear understanding of the current issues we’ll look at whether policy changes are needed. This review may show our current policies are still fit for purpose as they are for another three years. If changes are needed, we'll begin drafting these.

We’ll be asking the public for feedback on any potential changes in early 2023 – after the election and once a new Council is inducted.

You can find more information about gambling rules and regulations on our Gaming machines page.

Project phases

We'll be following these phases in this process.

Date	Phase
May–November 2022	Phase 1 We’re working with key stakeholders who can provide the information, data and different perspectives needed to inform the review of gambling policies to make sure they're fit for purpose. We’ll develop an social impact assessment to identify changes and impacts from gambling – alongside the potential need for any changes. If changes are needed, we'll prepare a Statement of Proposal to support any policy changes.
Early 2023	Phase 2 If we decide to propose any changes, we'll go to Council for approval to consult. Once the new Council has approved any Statement of Proposal, we'll begin public consultation. This will be the community’s opportunity to have its say on the impacts of gambling and Council’s role in managing these.

Media releases