These days we’re all looking for some form of entertainment – whether it’s seeing a movie, going out for dinner with friends or occasionally trying our hand at the lottery or gaming machines. Many pubs and clubs in New Zealand have a special type of machine called a Class 4 gaming machine, or “pokies” in common parlance. These machines attract people hoping to win a big prize for a small amount of money.
Class 4 gaming machines are usually found in local pubs, bars or clubs, rather than in traditional casinos. Although it is considered a form of entertainment, it has a huge social impact – particularly on vulnerable and low-income people.
The Porirua City Council is now reconsidering whether to change its policies around these machines.
Why is This Review Taking Place?
Porirua City Council is required under the Gambling Act 2003 to ensure that gambling activities are safe and balanced for the community. For this reason, Council is reviewing its Class 4 Gaming Machine Venue and TAB Venue Policy.
The review aims to determine whether to:
- Introduce more stringent regulations on the number of pokies
- Continue with the current policy
- Consider whether the Council should receive funding that comes from the profits of these machines
What Are the Options?
Council has put forward three main options for public consideration.
Option 1: Place More Restrictions on Class 4 Gaming Machines
This option means Council can now further restrict activities involving these machines.
What will change:
- If a club or pub has pokies, they cannot move them to another location
- Two venues cannot add machines or merge together
- If a venue remains closed for more than 6 months, no other operator will be allowed to set up pokies there again
What will be the effect of this?
Gradually, the number of such venues will decrease. The advantage of this will be that the reach of gambling will decrease, especially in those areas where people are already economically weak.
Example:
Suppose a club in Porirua had 15 pokies, but that club closed for some reason. According to the new policy, now no new club can go to that place and set up pokies. Earlier this was possible.
Option 2: No Change in the Current Policy
This option means that the policy which has been in force since 2019 will continue.
What will happen:
- Current clubs or pubs can relocate their pokies
- They can merge and also increase the number of machines
But to note:
There are some zone changes in Porirua’s Proposed District Plan. If the old policy is continued, the council will have to draw up a new map clearly stating which areas are approved for pokies.
Option 3: Council’s Moral Responsibility – Not Accepting Funding
This option seems very unique and socially responsible.
What is the proposal:
The council can make the moral decision not to accept grants that come from money that comes from Class 4 gaming machines.
Why is it important?
Profits from pokies often come from the most vulnerable in society. These people are often in financial difficulties but invest in a hope that the money will be made. Unfortunately, the money doesn’t get back to them.
What Activities Does the Council Receive Funding For?
Some community programs and events funded by pokies revenue include:
- Te Pahi Bus Service: To transport children from school to other activities
- Love Local: An event to promote local businesses
- Porirua Sport Awards: An event to honour local sportspersons
- Waitangi Day and Matariki Celebrations: Festivals celebrating Māori culture
What is the challenge for Council?
If Council stops funding pokies, these events will be affected. It will need to find another funding source to continue these events – perhaps by increasing public rates by 0.22%.
Why is Your Opinion Important?
Porirua City Council wants to hear from the public throughout this decision as these policies are directly linked to the wellbeing of the community. Council has engaged with several organisations such as:
- Ngāti Toa (local Māori iwi)
- Department of Internal Affairs
- Problem Gambling Foundation NZ
- Gaming Machines Association NZ
- Mapu Maia
Based on these discussions and a social impact report, Council has developed these options – but your involvement is vital to the final decision.
What Can You Do Now?
You can give your opinion to Council by answering:
- Which options do you support?
- Do you think the number of pokies should decrease?
- Should Council ethically stop funding pokies?
- Do you want the current policy to remain?
You can find out more by visiting the Council’s website or reading the PDF document they have provided.
Conclusion
Gambling may be a personal choice, but when it impacts society as a whole – and especially vulnerable communities – careful policymaking is important.
Porirua City Council has taken a responsible step in this direction and now we’re waiting for your opinion.
Let’s work together to build a Porirua that’s safe, balanced and beneficial for everyone.