The Lion Foundation runs most of the slot machines in New Zealand’s pubs. The charitable trust was established in 1985 and now operates around 2,700 ‘pokies’ and returns all profits as grants to community organizations. In 2006 grants were made totaling almost NZ$47 million (US$34.2 million). In Wellington an owner of a tavern has won the right to operate the pokies in a designated outside smoking area, a move opposed by the Internal Affairs Department but since approved by the Gambling Commission.

Since New Zealand’s smoking ban came into force, pubs have had to build outdoor shelters for clients who want to smoke. Windproof screens and a roof are permitted but the air must circulate freely above the screens. The no-smoking law has already had an affect on slot machine revenue and New Zealand’s Problem Gambling Foundation is critical of the decision to allow the shelters to house pokies. The Commission does not expect a proliferation of outdoor machines as neither the climate nor security arrangements at most locations would be suitable.

The Lion Foundation contends that there is little evidence to show a harmful link between problem gambling and smoking. “The Lion Foundation recognises its social responsibility arising from its operation of gaming machines. We ensure that gaming environments and products do not contribute unreasonably to exacerbation of problem gamblers, while also recognising the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their preferred entertainment.” Apparently for the Problem Gambling Foundation the cigarette breaks are somewhat strangely seen as a ‘blessing’ for those with gambling problems.
(E-04.12.07)

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