Two bylaws regulating activities and the consumption of alcohol in public places are under review and the council is inviting people to give their feedback.

The Activities in Public Places 2016 and the Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places 2018 bylaws are coming up for review by the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).

Formal consultation on any proposed changes to the bylaws won’t happen until next year, but locals are invited to share early feedback to help the council’s review.

The Activities in Public Places Bylaw guides how our public spaces are used to protect the community from activities that could cause a nuisance, QLDC said in a statement.

The current bylaw regulates events and trading in public places; organised tours and busking; distribution of leaflets; and canvassing and nuisance behaviour. 

The Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw aims to support a family-friendly environment and ensure public safety for everyone by regulating consumption and possession of alcohol in some public places within the district.

QLDC regulatory manager Anthony Hall said the bylaws are an important tool for ensuring our public spaces are safe and accessible for everyone. 

“As we all use these spaces, it’s important council understands what rules are currently working well and what needs to be factored in so any changes proposed reflect what our community needs,” he said.

There has been a lot of change across the district since the bylaws were last updated, he said.

“We’ve invested heavily in our parks, streets and facilities and continued to increase our focus on community wellbeing. We recognise there may be new things that could be investigated in both bylaws and we welcome early feedback and suggestions.”

Find more information and provide feedback or suggestions here.

Feedback is open until Friday November 25.

PHOTO: Wānaka App