A possible ban on alcohol advertising on Auckland Council buildings and land will proceed as part of an alcohol harm reduction policy.

The governing body has voted today not to address the issue through a bylaw process.

Councillors have approved a new signage bylaw today.

The hearings panel considering the signage bylaw suggested the council investigate following Auckland Transport, which bans alcohol advertising on its buildings and services.

But instead of doing this through the bylaw process it will be part of an alcohol harm reduction strategy.

Social policy and bylaw manager Michael Sinclair said a review of the strategy was due to be completed by the middle of next year.

Some councillors want the council to add gambling to the advertising ban and support the advertising of health and healthy lifestyle choices.

Rodney councillor Penny Webster questioned how far the council was going with this"nanny state stuff".

"Are we going to advertise lettuce but not potatoes or chocolate bars," she said.