Objecting to an Alcohol Licence
Changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
On the 31st of August 2023 parliament made changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. These changes make it easier for comminutes to have a say in local alcohol licensing conditions.
Who may object to an alcohol application
Anyone may now object to an alcohol licence application. You no longer need to demonstrate that you have a “greater interest than the public generally”. This includes new applications, renewals, variation of licence conditions or special licenses. There are still exceptions for trade competitors.
How do I find out about alcohol applications in my community
You can find out about licence applications on Councils website or in the Local paper. An applicant will also display a ‘Notice of application’ in an easy to read location of the premises.
How do you make an objection
You now have 25 working days if you wish to lodge an objection. This increase in time provides more time for people to become aware of current applications and make an objection if they wish to do so.
An objection still needs to be based on the criteria set out in the Act. You can find out more about the criteria by referring to the relevant sections here Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 No 120 (as at 31 August 2023), Public Act Contents – New Zealand Legislation
- Section 102 and 105 for new alcohol applications
- Section 120 for variation alcohol applications
- Section 128 & 131 for renewal applications
- Sections 140 & 142 for Special licence applications
How to make an objection
All objections must be made in writing within 25 working days from the date the public notice announcing the application was made.
You can submit your application on the objection to an alcohol application form or notify council in writing by sending this to compliance.admin@rotorualc.nz or in person at the Civic Centre and by mail. You must refer to the relevant criteria and outline the reasons for your application. Ensure you include your full name, email address and contact phone number. Also indicate if you indent to be heard at the public hearing.
You need to be aware that a copy of your objection including your name and street name will be given to the applicant and made public through the hearing process.
What will happen next
Upon receiving your application, Council will acknowledge this and send a copy of this to the applicant. The objection will form part of the application documents and will be presented to the District Licensing Community (DLC) at the public hearing.
While you don’t have to attend the public hearing, by not attending to speak to your application the DLC is limited on how much weight they can give your objection.
For more information on the alcohol objection process see the Health Promotion Agencies advice Alcohol Resources - Object to an alcohol licence
