Notifications

There has been a lot of interest in Tauranga City Council's Street Use and Public Places Bylaw 2018 that came into effect yesterday (Monday, 1 April).

This interest has generated a number of comments in the media / social media space that are factually incorrect. 

• Tauranga City Council cannot issue a fine to someone begging or rough sleeping.
• Begging and rough sleeping are only prohibited from within five metres of any retail premises in the Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Greerton city centres.

The bylaw does not impose a blanket ban across the entire city.

Council’s bylaw officers will engage with the individuals and educate them of the rules in the bylaw. They will also continue to connect individuals to the relevant support services to assist them.

Any reports of antisocial, intimidating, harassing or aggressive behaviour should be reported directly to police.