We've had a combined Gambling and TAB Venues Policy since 2004. It's been a long time since we've checked in with the community about our current policy settings. Council has instead opted to roll the policy over since they felt it was fit for purpose. In October 2024, Council decided to roll the policy over again with the condition that we consult on the policy this year.

We want to understand whether you still think our gambling and TAB venue policy is fit for purpose and if we're still on the right track. The questionnaire below tells you about our current policy settings and asks whether or not you support the approach. You can also read the full policy here or ask us a question at the bottom of the page.

What is class 4 gambling and why does Council have a policy on it?

Class 4 gambling (pokies) refers to gaming machines in pubs and clubs (i.e. outside a casino). Class 4 gambling may only be conducted by a corporate society and only to raise money for an authorised (e.g. community and non-commercial) purpose.

40% of profits from pokies go to community trusts, which are in turn granted to community organisations. The full list of organisations in Christchurch is listed on the Granted website.

Councils must have a policy on pokies by law under the Gambling Act 2003. The policy must state whether (and where) new pokie venues can be established. The policy may specify any restriction on the maximum number of machines and include a relocation policy.

Councils must also have a policy for standalone TAB venues (this does not include pub, kiosk, or online TAB) under Racing Industry Act 2020. The policy must specify whether (and where) new TAB venues may be established.

Council has a very limited role in gambling

Our only role is to decide whether consent is granted for new class 4 or TAB venues. Council cannot close existing venues or force them to relocate.