The bulk of Alexandra and Clyde streets will become alcohol-free zones during weekends from May 29 when a Central Otago District Council bylaw comes into force.
A partial liquor ban for streets in the town centres was approved in February by the Vincent Community Board, which agreed to pay the ongoing costs of its implementation, estimated to be about $7000 each year.
The ban will be evaluated after one year when the council and community board will make a decision about whether it should continue.
People consuming or possessing alcohol within the ban boundaries between 10pm and 7am from Thursday night through to Monday morning could be apprehended for breaching the bylaw.
Those bringing alcohol into the designated areas within a vehicle may also be apprehended.
The ban will not affect licensed premises or private property.
Support for the ban came from local police, councillors, board members and Central Otago Mayor Malcolm Macpherson.
Officer in charge of Central Otago Senior Sergeant Mike Cook, of Alexandra, said his officers would adopt a low-key approach (such as giving warnings), before prosecuting anyone.
Police suggested monitoring crime and drink-driving data, the perception of public safety, and the cleaning up of rubbish after weekends.
The ban includes, but also extends beyond, the boundaries of the area covered by the temporary liquor ban enforced during the annual Alexandra Blossom Festival in September.
A liquor bylaw (Control of Liquor in Public Places) was introduced by the council in 2004.
