Ngā pātai kārangaranga | FAQs
What is a Local Alcohol Policy?
A Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) is made by a local authority and influences how alcohol is sold and supplied in its geographical area. The aim of LAP is to ensure the safe and responsible sale and supply of alcohol and to minimise alcohol-related harm.
Why is Rotorua reviewing its Local Alcohol Policy now?
The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 requires local authorities to review its Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) every 6 years. Rotorua has had a LAP since 2019 therefore it is due for review.
How is Local Alcohol Policy reviewed?
A Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) is legislatively required to be reviewed every 6 years. A review requires local authorities to consider the demographics of its population e.g. average age and ethnicity as well as available information on the alcohol-related health and crime to understand the scale of alcohol-related harm. The police, medical officer for health and alcohol licensing inspectors are also required to support this review.
To support its review Rotorua Lakes Council also ran a short community alcohol survey to gather feedback during the policy development phase. The research report published alongside this consultation document outlines all of this information.
A public consultation must be held on the proposals before a LAP can be adopted.
What are off-licences and on-licences?
Off-licences allow for the sale and supply of alcohol for consumption elsewhere. Common examples include: bottle stores and supermarkets.
On-licences allow for the sale and supply of alcohol for consumption on site. Common examples include: cafes, bars and restaurants.
What is the difference between this and the Community Alcohol Survey?
Rotorua Lakes Council ran a short two-week long survey at the end of January asking residents on their thoughts and views on alcohol, its use and impact in Rotorua. The results from that survey has helped to shape policy proposals.
This consultation follows on from that survey and is now consulting on the proposed Local Alcohol Policy.
What is the role of the District Licensing Committee?
The District Licensing Committee (DLC) is an independent decision-making body who are responsible for assessing and issuing new alcohol licences and renewals as well as manager certificates. The DLC must consider a LAP when making any decisions.