Liquor licence applications in NZ: on-licence, off-licence and club rules

Alcohol licences are issued by district licensing committees (usually via your council) under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. Types include on-licence (bars, restaurants), off-licence (bottle stores) and club licences.

Applications require a certified manager, detailed plan of premises, and often neighbour notification. Police and the medical officer of health report on the application; contested applications go to a public hearing.

Temporary licences cover events; permanent licences tie to the building compliance and food registrations already on the site. Plan 3–6 months for a new on-licence in a residential-adjacent zone.

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