Controlled Purchase Operation "A Good Night Out of the Office"

On Friday 29 August 2013, 22 licensed premises in Palmerston North and one in Pahiatua were visited in a combined operation by Palmerston North Liquor Licensing Inspectors, Public Health Officers and Police.

For the operation three volunteers below the legal purchase age of 18 years attempted to purchase alcohol while being observed by a plain-clothed member of Police. The volunteers for this operation were aged 15, 16 and 17.

The controlled purchase operation visited 15 On Licence premises and 7 Off Licence premises in Palmerston North. One On Licence premises in Pahiatua was also tested.

There were no sales.

This success follows a Controlled Purchase Operation in the Tararua area two weeks ago where no sales were recorded.

The regulatory agencies involved were extremely pleased with the results compared to the most recent operation in Palmerston North when 6 premises sold over two nights.

Sergeant Glenn Ryan, Palmerston North Police Alcohol Harm Reduction Officer, said, "All regulatory partners are extremely pleased given the results we had back in June.

Historically we have found premises will take the volunteers order before asking for identification. Tonight the girls didn't get to order a drink as they were turned away without hesitation when they failed to produce identification.

The minors were turned away at the door at all premises with door staff.

This is exactly what we want to see.

'No sales' is a good night out of the office!"
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