12 May 2014

Auckland booze plan seen as disaster

1:33 pm on 12 May 2014

Police in Auckland say an alcohol plan proposed by Auckland Council is a recipe for disaster.

Bender drinking a lot.

Photo: Unknown

Under the proposal, stores would be allowed to sell alcohol only between 9am and 10pm. City centre bars would have to close an hour earlier at 3am , and those in the suburbs at 1am.

Inspector Gary Davey told Nine to Noon the difference in closing times will cause drinkers to shift, once one bar closes, to another. He said the rules need to be simpler and clearer.

Hospitality New Zealand said the proposed bylaw is a backward step. Auckland branch president Kevin Schwass said problems are caused by people drinking at home before they go out.