This Government bill amends the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 to improve alcohol regulation and remove barriers to economic growth while furthering the object of the Act. It is still before Parliament.
A Government bill that reworks New Zealand's alcohol licensing rules, which the government says have become overly complex. It would narrow who can formally object to a licence — generally to people who live or work in the area, or within about a kilometre of the premises — and give applicants a right of reply. It also streamlines special licences for events and eases rules so businesses such as barbers, clubs and producers can serve or sell alcohol in limited ways.
Introduced by Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee, it is framed as cutting red tape for businesses while still furthering the Act's goal of reducing alcohol harm. Supporters say it removes needless cost and delay for licence holders; critics, including the Public Health Association, say narrowing objection rights weakens community voices in licensing decisions and could increase alcohol-related harm.
See the Parliament.nz ↗ site for the full bill.