The first step in imposing temporary liquor bans in Otematata during holiday periods to reduce trouble will be taken by the Ahuriri Community Board at its meeting tomorrow night.
The board will consider a recommendation from a July 3 public meeting in Otematata that a temporary trial of a liquor ban be imposed covering the full township at Labour Day weekend, from December 26 to January 2 and at Easter.
If introduced, the Labour Day weekend ban will be used as a trial.
The proposal to introduce a ban on open liquor containers in the township, including in cars, follows major trouble at Labour Day weekend last year, especially with young people.
The town was littered with broken glass, there was vandalism and graffiti.
The Otematata Fire Brigade, called out to fires in camping areas where young people had gathered, was pelted with bottles, causing damage to one of its units and placing firefighters in danger.
If the board approves the recommendation, it will go to the Waitaki District Council for its approval.
The liquor ban would have to be advertised for public comment before being implemented.
The proposed ban caused some discussions at the public meeting in Otematata but, in the end, was unanimously approved by 18 people present.
The Timaru Yacht and Power Boat Club, which runs the huge Aviemore Classic regatta at Labour Weekend based at the Otematata boat harbour, also had concerns about a ban.
