Gaming machines
We're responsible for setting policies around the numbers and locations of Class 4 gaming machines ('pokies') and TAB venues in the district. We're not involved in deciding how community funds are distributed by gaming societies; see Funding for community groups for more information.
Policies
Council adopted the Class 4 Gambling and TAB Venue Gambling Policy on 14 December 2023.
The policy seeks to manage the growth and social impact of Class 4 and TAB venue gambling in the Kāpiti Coast District.
Class 4 and TAB venue gambling consents
Operating gaming machines outside of casinos falls under the Gambling Act 2003 as Class 4 gambling. To operate gaming machines or a standalone TAB venue in the Kāpiti Coast District, you must have Council consent. This applies to:
- new Class 4 gambling venues
- existing Class 4 venues wanting to start operating gaming machines that were not on the premises' licence in the previous six months
- existing venues wanting to increase the number of gaming machines at the venue
- new TAB venues
- relocation of venues
- merging of club venues.
Our policy takes a “sinking lid” approach to this, which means we won't issue a consent for any new Class 4 or TAB venues, additional gaming machines, venue relocations or club mergers. The aim of this is to minimise gambling harm in our communities.
If you'd like more information about Class 4 gambling and TAB venue consents, contact the Team Leader, Environmental Health, Compliance and Licensing.
Funding for community groups
Gaming machine societies distribute grants to community groups. For information on how to apply for funding and for contact addresses of societies, see Funding for community groups on the Department of Internal Affairs' website.