In December 2013 a new act, the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 (Act), came into force to provide a framework for managing the sale and supply of alcohol in New Zealand. Under the Act, any person involved in the sale and supply of alcohol must ensure the consumption of alcohol on premises under their supervision is done safely and responsibly and that any harm caused by alcohol is minimised.

The Council is responsible for issuing and renewing On-licences, Off-licences, Club Licences, Managers Certificates and Special Licences under the Act.

If you are wanting the use of the footpath for outside dining and/or for the consumption of alcohol, you will need to apply for a Licence to Occupy Footpath.

If you are involved in the sale and supply of alcohol as an owner, operator, manager, restauranteur, organiser or in any other way, you should make sure you are familiar with all your obligations under the Act and the associated regulations.

You can view the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Regulations 2013 and the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Fees) Regulations 2013 on the New Zealand Legislation website.

If you are thinking about  establishing a premises or running an event where you wish to sell alcohol you should contact one of Councils Licensing Inspectors to discuss your proposal.  Consulting with Council in the early stages is likely to save you time, money and frustration later on.

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 also requires that specific timeframes are adhered to for lodging and notifying applications. For applications that are more complicated additional time may be required so we recommend that you lodge your application as early as possible.

You can download applications for alcohol licences on the alcohol fees and application forms page, or collect an application form from any Council office. If you have any queries about alcohol licensing, you should, in the first instance, phone a Council Customer Services Officer on 0800 746 467.