Two popular student haunts have closed in Dunedin.

The closure of nightclub Boogie Nites and pizza bar Capone was announced via Facebook this morning,

Owner Rob Dale confirmed the venues had closed, but was not in a position to discuss the matter as he had not "slept for a couple of days".

Dale was an outspoken critic of the Dunedin City Council's (DCC) draft local alcohol policy, which includes introducing 3am closing times for bars – an hour earlier than the present closing time, coupled with a one-way door policy starting at 1am.

Paul Hunt, president of the Otago University Students' Association, said it was sad to see yet another on-license bar closing in the student area.

"When the Local Alcohol Policies were proposed, the DCC were warned that restrictions imposed on bars could force them to close.

"The closure of Capone and Boogie Nites demonstrates how tight the margins of on-license establishments are, and should mean the DCC rethink imposing restrictions, like a one-way door policy, plus others contained in the LAP."

Bars near the University of Otago which have closed in recent years include the Captain Cook Tavern, the Bowling Green Tavern, Monkey Bar and the Gardens Tavern.

The Captain Cook Tavern is set to reopen later this year.