The sale and supply of alcohol in New Zealand is governed by the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 (the Act), which outlines the legal requirements and obligations for those involved in the hospitality industry, particularly those who hold on-licences and club licences to serve alcohol.

One of the key aspects to behind the liquor license in New Zealand is the concept of “Host Responsibility,” which is intended to minimise alcohol-related harm and create safer drinking environments. Host Responsibility encompasses several important strategies that licensed premises and their staff must adhere to.

Staff training is crucial. All bar staff should be trained on their legal obligations and interventions to manage the sale and supply of alcohol. However, training to handle aggression and

Preventing intoxication is another significant responsibility. Servers of alcohol have a legal duty to prevent patrons from becoming intoxicated on the premises. This includes refusing service to anyone who is already intoxicated, ensuring intoxicated customers leave the premises, and preventing intoxicated people from entering in the first place.

The Act also mandates the denial of service to minors. Licensees and their staff must not sell or supply alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age of 18 years old, and appropriate identification checks should be conducted to verify a customer’s age.

Responsible promotion of alcohol is also a requirement. Alcohol promotions and advertising must be done in a manner that does not encourage the excessive or irresponsible consumption of alcohol.

Licensed premises are also required to provide a reasonable range of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages for customers, as well as ensure the availability of food, which helps to slow the absorption of alcohol and mitigate the risks of intoxication.

Finally, licensees must ensure that customers have access to information about safe transport options, such as designated drivers, public transport, or taxi services, to help them get home safely.

Failure to comply with the requirements of the Act can result in significant penalties, including fines and the potential suspension of the alcohol licence. It is essential that all staff involved in the sale and supply of alcohol are fully aware of their legal obligations and the importance of Host Responsibility in creating a safe and responsible drinking environment.

Finally, licensees must ensure that customers have access to information about safe transport options, such as designated drivers, public transport, or taxi services, to help them get home safely.

Finally, licensees must ensure that customers have access to information about safe transport options, such as designated drivers, public transport, or taxi services, to help them get home safely.

More information on liquor licensing and host responsibility guidelines, can be found at the New Zealand Alcohol Organisation’s website. The organisation provides comprehensive resources, training programmes, and support to help licensed premises and their staff fulfil their legal responsibilities and minimise alcohol-related harm in the community.