Media release
1 February 2013
Alcohol Policy Planning Underway
Work is underway on developing an alcohol policy for Auckland.

The passing of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act last December means Auckland Council can now develop its local alcohol policy (LAP). This policy will guide licensing decisions and could also determine location, density and maximum trading hours of licensed premises.

“This will enable us to develop a policy that reflects Auckland and its communities with greater local input into policy development and liquor licensing decisions,” says Councillor George Wood, chair of the council’s Community Safety Forum.

“There is a huge programme of work to implement the new Act but we have already done a lot of work to prepare for this and are committed to getting the new rules in place in a timely manner.”

The new Act will also see the establishment of District Licensing Committees to consider and determine liquor licensing applications, instead of the council acting as the sole District Licensing Agency (DLA) for liquor licensing.

Throughout this year, the council will also be engaging with the industry, key stakeholders and communities. There will also be full public consultation where the community will have the chance to have their say on the draft policy.

It is expected to be delivered over the next 18 months, with an estimated completion date of late 2014.

This policy development and the implementation of a new liquor licensing system are two components of the council’s wider programme on alcohol, which also includes reviewing liquor bylaws and liquor bans.

Last year the council also adopted its Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy, which informs and guides its work on alcohol-related harm.

The council recognises it is important to strike the right balance between public safety and creating a liveable city as well as supporting a thriving hospitality sector.

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Get involved:
People can keep up to date with policy and liquor licensing developments by signing up to our e-newsletter. Visit the Auckland Council website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/liqour or email liquorlicensing@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

ENDS

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