In a move to modernise New Zealand’s alcohol regulatory settings, the Government introduced the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Improving Alcohol Regulation) Amendment Bill (Bill) on 16 March 2026. The Bill aims to reduce administrative burdens and create a more flexible, practical licensing framework to allow businesses to serve alcohol efficiently and safely while maintaining appropriate safeguards against alcohol related harm.

We outline the key changes proposed by the Bill and reflect on the implications for licence holders below.

Key changes proposed by the Bill

Localised objections only and new right of reply: Only people living or working within the same territorial authority area, or within 1 kilometre of the proposed premises, will be able to object to a licence application or renewal. This responds to concerns about distant objectors opposing licences based on ideology rather than genuine local impact. In addition, applicants will gain the ability to respond in writing to objections within 15 working days, providing an opportunity to address issues raised and propose practical mitigations.

Greater certainty for licence renewals: District Licensing Committees (DLC) will no longer be able to decline renewal applications solely because they are inconsistent with a Local Alcohol Policy (LAP). Instead, a DLC may update licence conditions to better align with the relevant LAP, which is intended to provide certainty for long-established businesses.

Streamlined special licences for events: Special licence applications will be assessed under a consistent, national risk based framework. Currently, special licence applications for events held in multiple places, such as a series of concerts, are assessed separately by each DLC. Under the Bill, when two or more DLCs receive an application for a special licence that forms part of a group of connected events, and one or more of those events will occur in their district, the DLCs must consult one another on the application. These changes aim to reduce cost, delay, and inconsistency for event organisers, particularly those working across several regions. The Bill also expands the definition of a “large scale event” from 400 to 2,000 attendees.

Extended trading hours for major televised events: A new permanent mechanism will allow the Governor-General to approve extended trading hours for significant televised events via Order in Council. This removes the need for bespoke legislation each time a major sporting event arises and is intended to provide hospitality operators with clarity and efficiency when planning for high demand occasions.

Alcohol service permitted in hairdressing settings: Under the Bill, hairdressers and barbers will be able to provide one alcoholic drink per client per day without a licence, subject to time of day and age verification conditions. This change adopts the specific recommendation of the Hairdressing and Barbering Regulatory Review, reflecting the low-risk nature of these settings and reducing a regulatory burden that was seen as disproportionate to the volume of alcohol involved.

Expanded cellar door provisions for all producers: The new “producer tasting room” category will allow wineries, breweries, and distilleries to offer paid tastings under an off licence. This removes the need for a separate on licence, provided sampling quantities are within prescribed limits. 

Take home alcohol sales from restaurants with retail spaces: Restaurants that also operate a retail area will be able to apply for an off licence, making it easier for customers to purchase a bottle to take home. This is intended to create a more consistent and practical framework for businesses that already engage with customers across both dining and retail.

More flexibility for clubs hosting public events: Clubs that regularly host weddings, functions, or community events will be able to apply for an on licence rather than relying on repeated special licences. This is intended to reduce administrative overheads and supports clubs to host a wider range of events. 

Strengthened requirements for rapid delivery services: Rapid delivery operators (those who remotely supply alcohol) will be required to comply with increased obligations.  Delivery drivers must be over the age of 18 (not a minor), and alcohol can only be handed over if a person is present to receive it and that person is neither a minor nor intoxicated. These requirements formalise safeguards already used by many providers and is intended to ensure the convenience of fast delivery does not compromise responsible service standards. 

Zero-alcohol products recognised: Bars and clubs will be able to meet their obligation to provide lower-alcohol options by offering zero-alcohol beer, wine, and spirits. Supermarkets will also be permitted to display zero-alcohol spirits, liqueurs, and ready-to-drink products alongside their full-strength equivalents.

Other potential amendments: Digital IDs

The explanation document released alongside the Government’s announcement of the Bill proposes that accredited digital identity credentials, such as a digitally verified driver licence displayed on a mobile device, could be accepted as proof of age when purchasing alcohol. However, this proposal does not appear to have been carried through into the proposed amendments to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. We anticipate that this point will be clarified as the Bill progresses.

What will the proposed changes mean for licence holders?

The Bill proposes to modernise the licensing framework by reducing administrative effort for licence holders and responding to how people now buy alcohol, including the growth of online sales. This framework seeks to support a more practical, up to date system for the sale and supply of alcohol.

Businesses across hospitality, events, retail, and production industries should assess how these reforms may affect current licences and future plans. Most provisions will take effect six months after Royal assent, with special licensing reforms commencing by Order in Council or 12 months after Royal assent if no earlier date is set, to allow time for supporting regulations to be put in place. 

The Bill has been introduced to Parliament but is yet to have its first reading. If referred to a Select Committee, there will likely be an opportunity for submissions and industry input. 

Our team regularly advises on alcohol licencing matters and Select Committee processes. If you have questions about how these changes may affect your business or licensing arrangements, or would like to consider making a submission, please contact our team. 

This article was authored by Aimee Harris, a solicitor in our Environment team.