Liquor Ban extended to Reid’s Farm

MEDIA RELEASE

14 December 2009

Reid's Farm, the recreation reserve on Huka Falls Road popular with informal holiday campers, has been added to the list of places where the possession and consumption of liquor is banned during the New Year period. 

On Tuesday last week Council agreed to amend the Liquor Control (New Year) Bylaw to include Reid's Farm due to problems of alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour there in previous years.  

Cr Kathryn Uvhagen says that legitimate campers are not usually the instigators of these problems. “They are mostly caused by local young people who treat Reid's Farm as a party venue.” 

Taupo District Council reports that there are few problems at Reid's Farm for the majority of the summer. Most of the incidents occur around the Christmas/New Year period and late at night. Council has therefore agreed that the liquor ban should run from 10pm every night until 7am the following morning from 27th December to 4th January.  

 “These times will still allow genuine holiday-makers to enjoy a drink with their lunch or evening meals throughout this festive period,” said Cr Uvhagen.

The on-site security officers on duty during this period will now be able to enforce the liquor ban in conjunction with the Police. Council hopes that incidents of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour at Reid's Farm will be reduced, helping campers to continue enjoying the area's relaxed and peaceful atmosphere and Taupo's hospitality.

Contact:
John Ridd
Manager - Reserves and Open Spaces
Taupo District Council
Ph 07 376 0653