Hurricanes' Good Friday game highlights farcical Easter liquor laws

New Zealand’s out-dated and farcical liquor laws need reform to allow Wellington’s hospitality operators to meet the needs of their community, says Adam Cunningham, President of the Wellington Branch of the Hospitality Association.

On Good Friday Wellington hosts one of the bigger rugby matches of the year, when the Hurricanes host the Crusaders at Westpac Stadium. Those attending the match will be able to buy a beer before, after and during the match but only at Westpac Stadium. The many Crusaders supporters travelling up from Canterbury will be able to have a drink on the plane or the ferry as they travel to Wellington.

What none of these fans – either homegrown or visitors – will be able to do is have a drink at a bar, either before or after the match. Indeed, those wishing to watch the game on television at their local bar will also be sadly disappointed.

New Zealand’s archaic laws say that on Good Friday and Easter Sunday you cannot have a drink at a bar unless you are there for the purpose of dining.

“Wellington rightly prides itself as the vibrant entertainment capital of the country, meeting the diverse needs of both its community and our many tourists. New Zealand’s current laws will mean that this Easter the city cannot deliver to the expectations of its citizens and visitors,” says Mr Cunningham.

Mr Cunningham, who this week announced he is standing for a seat on Wellington City Council in October’s local body elections, says if you like rugby and a beer get along to the stadium this Friday.

“If you prefer to watch the rugby at your local, then talk to your local Member of Parliament about updating New Zealand’s archaic liquor laws.”

ENDS

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