People can drink alcohol in public recreation areas without committing an offence; this includes Crown land and land held by government agencies.

Police cannot confiscate alcohol from people in these public places; this does not apply if the person is subject to a direction under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act.

Police can still arrest or charge people for intoxicated and disorderly conduct.

These protections do not apply in public places declared to have cultural or religious significance.