The Welcome Bay Sports Bar and Grill and its attached Welcome Bay Super Liquor bottle store have had their alcohol-selling privileges revoked after a decision by New Zealand’s Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA).
Tauranga City Council alcohol licensing inspectors reported that the bar sold alcohol to an underage individual in November 2023 and again in November 2024.
Police also submitted three applications to ARLA in August and November 2024 regarding recurring legal violations. Authorities reported the absence of a named duty manager and an employee without an active manager’s certification.
“Both premises failed to have properly certified managers when alcohol was sold,” Tauranga City Council said.
In its ruling, the ARLA noted that the bar acknowledged “the applications are justified” and agreed that the Authority could, if deemed appropriate, cancel both the on-licence and off-licence held by the respondent.
Both establishments’ licences were cancelled “with consent,” effective March 18. The premises will also remain closed “for the foreseeable future.”
“The failure to adhere to some basic procedures and work practices have had serious results for this licencee. My team is obliged to monitor for, investigate and report such failings to the Authority,” Tauranga City Council alcohol licensing team leader Sam Kemp said, noting that the decision should serve as a “timely reminder” for other establishments to comply with regulations.
“While the decision and outcome ultimately lie with the Authority, the responsibility and due diligence to operate compliantly lies squarely with the operators of businesses that sell and supply alcohol.”
Alcohol Licensing Laws in New Zealand
Under New Zealand’s alcohol licensing framework, selling alcohol must comply with specific licence conditions. These conditions regulate aspects such as the permitted clientele (who alcohol can be sold to), days and times alcohol can be sold, restricted areas for minors, availability of food and non-alcoholic drinks, and information about alternative transport arrangements to avoid drunk driving.
Furthermore, licencees and their staff are prohibited by law from selling alcohol to intoxicated individuals, permitting patrons to become intoxicated, or providing alcohol to anyone under 18 years of age.