Liquor licencing

 
The sale of alcohol requires a licence under the Sale of Liquor Act 1989.  A licence is issued to a person, company or other legal entity in relation to a premise. Liquor licences cannot be transferred from one person to another, or from one premise to another. 
 
A certified manager must be on duty any time liquor is being sold or supplied to the public at a licenced premise. The manager is responsible for complying with the Sale of Liquor Act 1989 and any conditions of the licence. Jump to Manager's certificates if you already have your licence sorted.
 
Please note it takes 20 working days to process a special licence and 8-12 weeks for on/off/club licences so please get your applications in early. If you have any questions please contact the Environmental Health department of ring 06 306 9611.
 
What type of licence do I need?
The licence you need depends on the type of business or activities you are planning. There are six kinds of liquor licences:
 
1. On licence
For selling or supplying liquor to be consumed on a premises like a hotel, bar, café, restaurant or venue.
 
 
2. Off licence
For selling or supplying liquor to be consumed away from the premises, like a supermarket, bottle store or vineyard/winery.
 
 
3. Club licence
For selling or supplying liquor to be consumed on club premises by members of the club and their guests, or by members of other clubs with reciprocal visiting rights.
 
 
4. Special licence
Special licences are for events like weddings or wine tastings where you plan to sell or supply liquor only for a short time.
 
 
5. Temporary authority
If you have purchased a licenced business you will need a temporary authority to operate until your own licence is approved.
 
 
6. Manager’s certificates
Managers need to have appropriate qualifications, at least six months experience and be currently working in the industry.