No new bottle stores in Whangarei

Photo / Thinkstock

No new bottle stores will be introduced in Whangarei for up to six years under a new draft local alcohol policy.

At today's council meeting, Whangarei District Council is expected to approve putting its new draft policy out for public consultation so residents can also have a say on where and when alcohol is sold or consumed.

Introduced in 2013, the Local Alcohol Policy replaces current liquor licensing policies (LLPs) and gives councils the ability to create their own restrictions.

Paul Dell, group manager district living, said many other councils had already developed policies specific to their regions.

"I think the policy we've developed is appropriate for Whangarei," Mr Dell said.

The draft policy seeks to have no new bottle stores introduced in the Whangarei district, although it should not impact on renewals of licences.

It would give the District Licensing Committee the ability to impose restrictions when issuing or renewing a licence for an on-licence premises.

The committee would have the discretion to require a bar to not serve shots after midnight, restrict the use of outdoor areas after a certain time, require additional security staff, and install CCTV cameras.

Northland medical officer of health Clair Mills and Onerahi community members have appealed a council decision made at the end of last year to allow a second bottle store in Onerahi. The consultation period for the local alcohol policy will be from June 8 until July 10. Public hearings are planned for July 29.