SkyCity has unveiled plans to construct an expansive outdoor deck at its Auckland casino, designed to allow patrons to smoke while engaging in gaming activities. However, the proposal has drawn strong opposition from public health advocates and gambling harm reduction groups.
The Proposal
SkyCity’s latest application to the Gambling Commission seeks approval for an extensive modification of its current facilities. The proposed smoking deck is set to be at least four times larger than the existing balcony, which is scheduled for conversion to internal space on level three of the casino. The intention is to provide a larger area where customers can smoke and simultaneously play on the pokies.
In its submission, SkyCity emphasised that the modified balcony will adhere to all legal requirements, stating that it will remain an open area with no visible gambling activity from the street. Despite these assurances, questions remain about how the expanded space will function in practice.
Public Health Concerns
Public health organisations, including ASH and the Problem Gambling Foundation, have expressed serious concerns about the plan. Critics argue that by enlarging the designated smoking area, the casino could inadvertently encourage longer periods of gambling, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Andre Froude from the Problem Gambling Foundation highlighted that the current ability to step away from the machines is a critical harm minimisation strategy. “When patrons can smoke or vape and use pokies simultaneously, they lose the opportunity to take a break and reflect on their gambling,” Froude said. This break is seen as a key element in preventing the escalation of gambling problems.
ASH director Ben Youdan also voiced his disapproval, noting that the new deck would disproportionately affect those already at risk. “Smoking rates are now under 7% in Aotearoa New Zealand but remain high among lower-income communities, individuals with poor mental health, and other vulnerable groups,” Youdan stated. He warned that expanding the deck could further entrench the harmful link between smoking and problem gambling.
Gambling and Smoking: A Risky Combination
Research both in New Zealand and internationally has consistently found a strong association between smoking and risky gambling behaviours. Critics argue that by facilitating an environment where patrons can smoke and gamble without interruption, SkyCity is not only promoting tobacco use but also potentially exacerbating gambling harm.
The Problem Gambling Foundation has indicated that the proposed design does little to address the broader issue of gambling harm. Froude explained, “We already see a problem with the current setup. Allowing a larger, more enclosed space undermines our efforts to encourage regular breaks, which are essential in minimising gambling-related harm.”
There is also scepticism regarding the design of the deck. Some observers noted that the graphics provided in the commission documents do not clearly depict an open area, but rather a room-like structure with walls—a detail that could conflict with regulatory requirements.
Response and Next Steps
SkyCity maintains that the modified balcony will comply with all statutory obligations, including remaining an open-air space and keeping gaming activity out of public view. However, public health advocates plan to formally challenge the proposal. The Problem Gambling Foundation has announced its intention to submit detailed comments to the Gambling Commission later this month, along with input from other stakeholders.
Critics argue that the proposal is counterproductive, particularly at a time when Aotearoa New Zealand is aiming to achieve a smokefree society. With smoking rates declining steadily over recent years, the expansion of a dedicated smoking and gambling area appears to contradict national public health goals.
As discussions continue, all eyes will be on the Gambling Commission’s decision regarding SkyCity’s application. The outcome could have significant implications for how casinos balance commercial interests with the need to protect vulnerable populations from harm.