A blitz on licensed premises in Northland saw four out of 35 businesses breach their licences which has pleased officials - but has them warning to take more care approaching the festive season.
Last weekend Whangarei District Council, police and Northland District Health Board conducted a controlled purchase operation (CPO) during which volunteers and staff from the three organisations entered premises to observe and test compliance with the Sale of Liquor Act.
In Whangarei 23 premises were checked, including 18 off-license premises and five on-license premises. One off-licence and one on-licence breached their licences, which will result in applications for suspension of their licences and managers certificates.
In the Far North 12 premises were checked, including seven off-licence premises and five on-licence premises. Yet again one off-licence and one on-licence breached their licences, which will result in applications for suspension of their licences and managers certificates.
Police Area Commander Whangarei/Kaipara Inspector Tracy Phillips said breaches included sales to under-aged volunteers.