Alcohol ban areas

An alcohol ban area means that members of the public cannot consume alcohol in a certain area. Did you know that the town centres of Ashburton and Methven have an Alcohol Ban from 9pm to 7am daily?

Why do we have alcohol ban areas?

The Alcohol Control Bylaw contributes to public health and safety, while allowing people to responsibly enjoy alcoholic beverages in public places where appropriate. The alcohol ban areas are in place to help provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone and to reduce the risk of alcohol-related offensive behaviour, disorder and crime.

Ashburton District Alcohol Control Bylaw

  • Prohibits the consumption of alcohol in the public areas specified in the maps below, and
  • Prohibits persons having in their possession any opened container of alcohol, during the hours of 9.00pm and 7.00am.

Learn more about Ashburton District's Alcohol Control Bylaw

Alcohol ban areas

View the Ashburton alcohol ban area

View the Methven alcohol ban area

What happens if I drink alcohol in the alcohol ban area?

If you drink alcohol in the alcohol ban area during the specified hours, you may be:

  • Issued an infringement notice with an instant fine of $250 by Police.
  • Arrested or summonsed by Police and appear in court.  This can result in a conviction for breach of the alcohol ban
  • If you are under 18, Police can issue you with an infringement notice and fine under the Summary Offences Act 1981