Pub contest prize of 50 crates of beer upsets alcohol watchdog

A pub competition offering 50 crates of beer to the winner has concerned an alcohol watchdog group which says it risks promoting excessive drinking.

The competition at The Shed in Rotorua involves entrants chasing a prize which can be taken in one hit, or one crate at a time for a year.

Alcohol Advisory Council chief executive Gerard Vaughn questioned whether such initiatives breached a national protocol stating promotions involving large quantities of free alcoholic drinks were unacceptable, the Daily Post reported.

"Under the Sale of Liquor Act any promotions or activities must not be seen as intended or likely to encourage people to consume alcohol excessively."

The pub's owner, Reg Hennessy, said the competition did not promote excessive drinking and was about "getting people out and enjoying themselves and having fun pitting themselves against their mates".

Local licensing co-ordinator Sergeant Mike Membery said competitions promoting excessive drinking were a concern. However, he was confident Mr Hennessy would run a safe competition.

- NZPA