Make a start

There's a lot involved in the alcohol licensing process so it's a good idea to read up on all the relevant information available to make sure you understand what your responsibilities as a licensed operator involve.

For detailed information about the law, have a read of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. You can also find a lot of useful information at Alcohol.org

Whether you are starting your own business, taking over an existing business, or selling or supplying alcohol at an event, you'll need your own licence to do so.

Before you apply, our initial advice is to check out the feasibility and legalities of your proposal with the relevant Council departments.

Our Customer Services Team can help in the first instance, and then may refer you to a:

  • Resource Consent Planner - for District Plan and RMA information about setting up a business at your chosen site
  • Building Control Officer - for information about new buildings or making renovations to an existing building, fire safety requirements etc.
  • Environmental Health Officer - for advice about food safety and registration, and outdoor dining
  • Licensing Inspector - for advice about the sale or supply of alcohol.

When purchasing a new building, it is recommended that you obtain a Land Information Memorandum (LIM). This is a report on what the Council know about the land and buildings at your chosen site.

Please note, before an alcohol licence can be applied for, you'll need to ensure you have obtained your own Building and Planning certificate.

Types of licences

The type of business you will be operating will determine the type of licence you'll need. Outlined below is a list of the different licences available and what each one allows.

On licence  If you want to sell or supply alcohol to be consumed on site e.g. restaurant, tavern etc.
Off licence  If you want to sell or supply alcohol to be consumed away from the place of purchase e.g. liquor store, supermarket etc.
Club licence  Any club wanting to sell or supply alcohol to be consumed on site, by club members and their guests only e.g. rugby club, bowling club etc.
Special licence  If you want to sell alcohol at an event or are charging an entry fee/collecting donations where alcohol is being supplied for free
Temporary Authority   This is a transitional licence for when you are taking over a business that already has an alcohol licence. A Temporary Authority allows you to sell and supply alcohol for up to three months or until the existing licence  expires (whichever is sooner). This gives you time to lodge a new application.

 

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