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Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) has welcomed today’s announcement that the Government has accepted eight recommendations to improve alcohol licensing processes and regulation.
The recommendations were made as part of the Ministry for Regulation’s Hospitality Sector Review, announced on Wednesday.
Kristy Phillips, Hospitality NZ CEO, says: “We have been clear for a number of years about the pressures and challenges hospitality businesses face when applying for and renewing alcohol licences.
“It’s pleasing to see Ministers and the Review recognise the role and contribution of hospitality businesses to the economy, and the efforts they put into creating sociable environments for the community.
“Both through the Hospitality Summit processes and our engagement with the Ministry for Regulation, we have raised long-standing concerns about inconsistent decisions, long timeframes and growing fees associated with the licensing system.
“These recommendations accepted today will make a measurable improvement in how hospitality businesses interact with the regulatory system.
“Improving the information and clarity about how to apply for and renew a liquor licence will also support informed decision making.
“Hospitality NZ believes improving the consistency, communication and timeliness of regulatory processes are principles that should be applied to all regulatory systems.
“We are pleased to see the review already move toward implementation, and we look forward to working with the Government as next steps progress.”
