New Year Compliance Checklist for Licensed Premises

Start the year strong: key liquor licensing tasks every venue should review

Running a licensed premises in New Zealand means staying on top of multiple compliance obligations under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. January is the perfect time to reset, refresh, and ensure your venue is legally aligned for the year ahead.

Here's a practical start-of-year liquor licensing checklist every hospitality business should complete:

1. Review your liquor licence conditions

Check your on-licence or off-licence conditions and make sure your operations still align with them — especially layout, designated areas, hours, noise controls, CCTV, and outdoor dining setups.

2. Confirm duty manager certificates are up to date

Expired Manager's Certificates (MCs) can put your business at risk. Review expiry dates, renew early, and ensure you always have an appointed and on-duty manager with a valid certificate.

3. Refresh host responsibility practices

Update your Host Responsibility Policy, check low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options, review water accessibility, and ensure all staff understand intoxication indicators.

4. Audit signage and training

Make sure all required signage (licence summary, minors, intoxication, host responsibility) is current and clearly visible. Reinforce training for new staff who may be unfamiliar with NZ liquor laws.

5. Check your incident register & staff briefings

Ensure all incidents have been recorded and that staff understand when entries are required.

Starting the year organised protects your licence, reduces risk during summer events, and ensures you're fully compliant with New Zealand's alcohol licensing requirements.