There is compelling evidence that increasing the legal alcohol purchasing age reduces harm and saves lives, a US professor has told MPs.

Raising the alcohol purchase age from 18 to 20 will be a conscience vote for the National Party, but an addiction specialist says either way, it will not change NZ's drinking culture.

A man's arm was amputated on a Sydney road after he was hit by a drunk driver.

An announcement on changes to alcohol legislation is likely in the next few weeks, Prime Minister John Key says.

Almost two-thirds of New Zealanders support lowering the drink-driving limit, a survey has revealed.

The health sector is overburdened by those who don't know how to look after themselves or don't give a damn, writes Gareth Morgan.

Justin Vaughan has denounced the behaviour of drunk All Black fans at last weekend's Bledisloe Cup test, saying it was symptomatic of wider alcohol problems.

Thirty-four soldiers from just one army base have faced drinking-related court charges in the first six months of this year.

John Key says he wouldn't have more than one wine before driving, but is standing by not yet reducing the alcohol limit.

Matthew Kennedy may one day work out why one of NZ's worst drink drivers was able to get behind the wheel and kill his mum.

A shock Herald test saw a member of staff able to down nine beers before hitting the legal drink drive limit.

We are calling for New Zealanders to sign up to our campaign to drink and drive responsibly. Read one of the stories that sparked the alcohol limit debate.