New liquor laws in force today
Justice Minister Judith Collins says this is the first time in two decades the government is restricting rather than relaxing drinking laws.
Changes to liquor laws come into play from tonight, following the introduction of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act last year.
Justice Minister Judith Collins says this is the first time in two decades the government is restricting rather than relaxing drinking laws.
On-licences including clubs, bars and restaurants must stop trading at 4am. Hotel minibars are exempt from this rule.
Off-licences such as supermarkets, liquor outlets and wine shops must close at 11pm this evening. Outlets are no longer allowed to promote alcohol discounted by more than 25%.
Host responsibilities mean water must be provided to patrons and food must be available. There also has to be information on transport options.
As under the old law, outlets cannot serve intoxicated people or allow them to stay on their premises.
However, the law change has introduced a new definition of “intoxicated” to mean someone who is affected by alcohol, drugs or other substances and who is displaying two or more of the following conditions: affected appearance, impaired behaviour, impaired co-ordination or impaired speech.
Adults can now also be fined up to $2000 for suppling alcohol to minors (under 18 years old) without their parent’s express consent. Minors who are married, in a civil union or living in a defacto relationship are excluded from this law.
The Health Promotion Agency and DraftFCB have produced a campaign about "cool dads" to get this message across.
On the spot fines of $250 can be given for drinking or having an open container of alcohol in liquor ban areas; presenting fake IDs or using another’s ID to buy alcohol; and giving or lending an ID to an underage person if there is knowledge they will use it to buy alcohol.
For outlets, the changes have broadened the criteria around how liquor licences are obtained and renewed.
NBR Staff
Wed, 18 Dec 2013
Wed, 18 Dec 2013
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New liquor laws in force today
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