Pokies' $28m sparks plea

by John Cousins | 9th March 2010

A Tauranga public-health worker is calling for a full social and economic review of gambling after disclosures that city pokie machines raked in profits of nearly $28 million last year.

Jeanette Arnold wants the council to reverse its decision last year in which it decided to stick to a "minimal" review of its gambling venues policy.

Ms Arnold said the net profit of $27.8 million from pokie machines was after winnings were returned to punters. Her figures did not include TAB betting, internet or Lotto-related gambling.

Ms Arnold highlighted that the profit was achieved during a recession.

- Read more in today's Bay of Plenty Times