The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Amendment Bill has been welcomed by the Brewers Association, which labelled it a practical law improvement.
The Brewers Association of New Zealand has welcomed the introduction of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Improving Alcohol Regulation) Amendment Bill, saying the reforms represent a practical step toward modernising New Zealand’s alcohol laws.
Executive Director Dylan Firth said the proposed changes recognise how consumer behaviour and the hospitality sector have evolved.
“One of the most positive changes in this Bill is the recognition that zero-alcohol products are now a major part of consumer choice. Allowing licensed premises to meet their legal requirement by stocking either low-alcohol or zero-alcohol options reflects the way New Zealanders are increasingly choosing moderation,” said Firth.
The Bill proposes allowing venues to stock zero-alcohol beverages as an alternative to low-alcohol products to meet responsible service obligations, improving access to alcohol-free options for consumers.
“The growth of zero percent beer and other alcohol-free products has been one of the most significant changes in the beverage sector over the past decade. Updating the law to reflect that reality supports both responsible drinking and consumer choice.”
The Brewers Association also welcomed provisions extending “cellar door” tasting rules beyond wineries to other producers such as breweries and distilleries.
“New Zealand breweries are increasingly investing in visitor experiences and beer tourism. Allowing breweries to charge for tastings under off-licences simply puts them on the same footing as wineries and supports regional tourism and local producers,” said Firth.
The Association said the broader focus of the Bill on simplifying licensing processes and reducing unnecessary compliance costs would also be welcomed by many in the hospitality sector.
“Hospitality businesses across the country are under significant pressure. Any practical improvements that reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and make the system easier to operate are positive steps.”
However, Firth said the reforms should be seen as one step in a broader process of modernising alcohol regulation.
“There are still a number of areas where the licensing system could be improved to make it more consistent, more efficient, and more supportive of responsible businesses.”
The Brewers Association noted the Government’s ongoing Ministry for Regulation review of the hospitality sector, which is currently examining wider regulatory settings affecting hospitality businesses.
“The recent Hospitality Summit at Parliament highlighted just how many practical improvements could still be made to licensing and regulatory processes,” said Firth.
“We strongly support the Ministry for Regulation review and look forward to its recommendations later this year. This Bill is a useful step in the right direction, but it should also be the start of a broader modernisation of how alcohol licensing works in New Zealand.”
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