From salon drinks to late-night sports screenings: New Zealand govt introduces sweeping alcohol regulation reforms

The New Zealand government has introduced legislation aimed at reforming the country’s alcohol regulations, saying the changes will simplify the licensing system and reduce regulatory burdens on businesses.Regulation Minister David Seymour and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced the introduction of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Improving Alcohol Regulation) Amendment Bill on Monday.The government said the proposed reforms are designed to make the alcohol licensing system easier for businesses to navigate while maintaining safeguards to address alcohol-related harm.

Changes to objections and licence renewals

One of the key provisions in the bill would limit who can object to alcohol licence applications or renewals.

Under the proposal, objections could only be made by people who live or work in the same council area as the premises, or within a one-kilometre radius.Licence applicants would also be granted a formal right to respond to objections.The legislation would also prevent licence renewals from being declined solely because a local alcohol policy has changed since the licence was originally granted.

Easier rules for hospitality businesses

Several measures in the bill aim to expand opportunities for businesses in the hospitality sector.

Clubs would be allowed to apply for on-licences if they wish to serve the wider public, while certain restaurants with on-site retail areas could sell alcohol for customers to take home.The bill also proposes streamlining special licence requirements, which the government says will make it easier to host events where alcohol is served.

Late openings for major televised events

Another provision would introduce a permanent mechanism allowing licensed premises to open and serve alcohol outside normal trading hours to televise major events such as the Rugby World Cup.According to the government, such changes currently require specific legislative adjustments. Under the proposal, the Governor-General could approve extended trading hours on the recommendation of the responsible minister.

Drinks at salons and expanded tasting rules

The proposed legislation would also exempt hairdressers and barbers from needing an on-licence to offer customers a limited drink such as a beer, glass of wine, or gin and tonic.In addition, cellar-door tasting rules would be expanded beyond wineries to allow breweries and distilleries to charge for tastings without needing an on-licence.Licensed premises would also be allowed to meet legal requirements by stocking either low-alcohol or zero-alcohol beverages.

Focus on reducing regulatory complexity

McKee said the regulatory framework governing alcohol had become increasingly complex and bureaucratic over time.“The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Improving Alcohol Regulation) Amendment Bill is a necessary correction to make the licensing process fairer, make it easier to host events, and cut a heap of red tape affecting everything from hairdressers to major concerts,” she said.Seymour said the reforms were intended to make alcohol laws more effective by targeting harm while reducing unnecessary restrictions on responsible consumers and businesses.“The hospitality sector supports tens of thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to our economy across hospitality, tourism, retail, manufacturing and events,” he said.The government said industry groups will have an opportunity to suggest further changes during the select committee stage. The bill is expected to be considered by Parliament in the coming months.