Discussions are under way between the council, police and Lincoln University to see if an alcohol-free zone around the centre of the Selwyn town would reduce alcohol-related harm.
The idea of a ban has the backing of The Famous Grouse Hotel co-owner Shaughn McNabb.
“100% we are supporting that we have been advocates for a long time,” he said.
McNabb said the hotel inadvertently gets blamed for students, who have not been at the Grouse or have been refused entry, drinking on the street.
“We're in control in the pub, but we cannot control what’s happening outside the pub.
“Students and people are just throwing cans everywhere, and it just makes us look bad.”
Early last month, the Grouse gained unwanted notoriety when two bouncers were filmed allegedly assaulting an 18-year-old after he had been ejected for bad behaviour. It was a Wednesday night when Lincoln University students traditionally go there.
The incident is still under investigation by police.
McNabb said the hotel has been cleared of any wrongdoing and has since engaged a new company for security.
The hotel is now only allowing people aged over 19 in on a Wednesday, which McNabb said has helped.
“Over the course of the year, (students) are about 4% of turnover, and I'm not risking 96% for 4%.”
Super Liquor owner Pawan Kumar, which is across the road from the Grouse, said students often buy alcohol while waiting for fast food from a fish and chip shop next door.
He supported an alcohol ban.
The university also supported a ban.
“We are supportive in principle of a potential alcohol-free zone in Lincoln township and continue to engage with Selwyn District Council and other stakeholders to consider all appropriate alcohol related harm mitigations,” a university spokesperson said.
In Christchurch, there is an alcohol free zone around Canterbury University.
Senior Constable Andy Williamson said police support any measure to reduce alcohol related harm. “Police want to reduce alcohol-related offending, victimisation, and harm and, in turn, generally support all efforts from partners and the community to do so,” he said.
Springs Ward councillor Denise Carrick said a ban could be good to reduce litter, such as cans and bottles, around Lincoln.
Fellow Springs Ward councillors, Aaron McGlinchy and Sarah Barnsley, wanted to see more data before making a “knee-jerk” reaction.
