If you are a bar owner or operator, club manager, restauranteur or manager of a venue where alcohol will be sold and supplied, you need to be familiar with the laws and regulations that apply to liquor.

The Council is responsible for the issuing and renewal of liquor licences and Managers Certificates in terms of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989. You can view the Act to find out more about the criteria and regulations by visiting the Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand.

When running a licenced premises, you must ensure that:

• You have the correct licence
• Your bar managers hold current certificates
• You have a host responsibility programme in place

More information about the specific requirements for liquor licensing is available in the Liquor Licensing Policy.

In addition to consulting with Council's Environment Health Officers about a liquor licence, if you are thinking about establishing a new premises where liquor will be sold, you should consult with Council's building and planning departments to ensure you meet all the legislative requirements. Remember that consulting with Council in the early stages may save you time and money later on.

You can download an application for a liquor licence, or collect an application form from any Council office. If you have any queries about liquor licensing, phone customer services on 0800 746 467.