New Alcohol Rules Supported

Media release: Embargo until 6am Wednesday December 18, 2013

New Alcohol Rules Supported

Wellington, December 18

The Distilled Spirits Association of New Zealand has today welcomed the roll-out of the final provisions of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.  These provisions will see, among other things, changes to the way alcohol can be advertised, opening hours for on and off-licence premises and strengthened host responsibilities making it an offence for adults to supply alcohol to minors without the express permission of the relevant parent or guardian.

“As an industry body we support any sensible measures that continue to reduce the harm caused by excessive consumption of alcohol,” said DSANZ Chief Executive, Robert Brewer.

“As such DSANZ members will continue to comply with both the intent and the spirit of the new legislation as we feel we have an important role to play in assisting consumers drink appropriately,” he said.

“The majority of us already drink responsibly but to continue to see a reduction in harmful drinking behaviour our belief is there needs to be both effective and well-enforced laws combined with targeted, evidence-based programmes that seek to change the cultural norms that lead to harmful or excessive drinking.

“DSANZ already supports an initiative to create a moderate, responsible drinking culture in New Zealand called Cheers!” said Mr Brewer.

Cheers! Provides practical advice for drinkers that can help them understand the way they drink, the consequences of their drinking and how to drink more responsibly.  Cheers! can be viewed at www.cheers.org.nz.

“This close to Christmas it is easy to lose focus on the importance of drinking sociably and safely.  In this context it is good to see the last of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act’s regulations introduced at this time.

ENDS

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