A nationwide smoking ban in bars, clubs and restaurants that came into force in December last year has had little, if any, effect on gay venues. Most venues spoken to by GayNZ.com say the effects have only been positive. "We may have possibly lost one or two clients over it but none that have actually said so," says Stuart Yateman, manager of Christchurch venue Menfriends. "The venue itself is a far nicer place to be, the crew have all saved a fortune by not being able to puff away all day and non-smokers, who predominate, appreciate it." Leesa West, owner of Kamo Restaurant on K Rd in Auckland, estimates that patronage has actually increased since the ban. “We have actually got approval from the council for a little bit of seating outside, up to two metres, so the ones who want to smoke are sitting outside," she says. "It's not very big area, though, only four tables. Otherwise people just stand in the doorway." Wellington drag artiste Pollyfilla, who performs at venues all over the country, says it has improved social cohesion. "People will gather outside to smoke and interact," she says. Other countries are set to follow in New Zealand's footsteps with smoking bans. Ireland, India and Norway had already banned smoking in bars by June last year. Britain, Scotland, Italy, Hong Kong and Russia all announced plans late last year to follow suit within the next year or two.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Thursday, 10th February 2005 - 12:00pm