Tauranga council bans begging, rough sleeping near shops

The Tauranga City Council has imposed a begging and rough sleeping ban.

At times interjections were yelled out by members of the public at the council meeting today.

Mayor Greg Brownless was directed by councillors to ask the public to remain quiet.

Councillors were in disagreement about the bylaw, many calling it a waste of money and saying that it would do little to help the city’s homeless.

But those who work closely with the community say the bylaw, which will mean beggars and rough sleepers won’t be permitted within five metres of shops, is a must.

1 NEWS spoke to a number of people in the community who said they were fed up with the intimidation and harassment.

The bylaw was passed 6-5, and will be enforced by April next year.