Operational Update #621 May 2020 Taverns Opening From today, bars and taverns can open under the Level 2 Government guidelines. This means gambling venues whose primary activity depends on the sale of liquor should now be able to conduct their primary activity and therefore operate gambling lawfully (assuming their other regulatory obligations are also met). The Level 2 Health Order also includes other measures relating to businesses offering food and beverage services. These remain in place and must be followed. Corporate Societies, venues and clubs must ensure they comply with all legal obligations including the Health Order. Authoritative information about COVID-19 and keeping people safe is available from: · COVID-19 Public Health Response (Alert Level 2) Order 2020 · Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment Industry bodies such as Hospitality New Zealand also provide industry-specific guidance and information. Banking Businesses reopening are reminded to bank any outstanding GMP that couldn’t be banked under the lockdown, immediately. Normal GMP banking requirements will resume from today. Host responsibility Venues are reminded of their host responsibility obligations under the Gambling Act and to reinforce the actions they expect staff to take if they see signs of problem gambling. With physical distancing, it would be helpful to consider providing spaces that are suitable for private conversations with gamblers who may be showing signs of harm. Updates We will continue to monitor the situation and update our DIA gambling website regularly. If you have specific questions, please email us at gambling@dia.govt.nz |