Big changes are coming soon to Auckland’s local alcohol policy, including stricter trading hours and a freeze on new liquor licenses in some areas.
The Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Committee approved Auckland Council’s Provisional Local Alcohol Policy last week, edging it closer to its implementation.
The new policy means stricter trading hours meaning bottle stores and supermarkets can no longer sell alcohol past 9 pm.
Currently, alcohol can be sold until 11 pm in off-license stores, which include supermarkets and bottle stores.
Regulatory and Safety Committee chairperson Josephine Bartley said the policy would bring in some important changes that will help to reduce alcohol harm.
“It’s not a ban on drinking, it’s about working together to create a thriving, safe and healthy region for all of us.
“We want Aucklanders to enjoy all our region has to offer, and to feel safe when doing so.”
A governing body will meet soon to decide when this will come into effect.
