University could be fenced off

Canterbury University could become the first New Zealand campus to put up fences and lock the public out if a city council alcohol bylaw is passed.

The council is considering a bylaw that could open the way for students to get $250 instant fines for drinking on university land because of a change to what is considered a "public place".

The university is opposed to the rule that extends the definition of "public places" to private land with open access, such as its campus.

At present the university is within the Ilam/Riccarton permanent alcohol ban zone.

University vice-chancellor Rod Carr said the only way to protect students from police alcohol ban fines would be to "put up fences and gates", and "assert the private nature" of its land.

The Christchurch City Council says it must adhere to the Local Government Act.

Universities New Zealand said it would consider how its eight other campuses would be affected.

Canterbury University was one of 16 submitters on the council's Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Amendment Bylaw.

Carr said the change in definition of a public place meant it "may well be pushed over time to stop access".

New Zealand universities were "all pretty open because that's how we want them to be", but the bylaw would make private campus events like barbecues impossible.

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University could be fenced off