21 December 2006

Media Release – available for immediate use

“Cheers everyone … but in moderation” – the message for Christmas & New Year

Hospitality patrons are being asked to keep in mind the moderation message this festive season.  

The Hospitality Association of New Zealand says its members have a legal responsibility to ensure that customers don’t get intoxicated.

‘If a manager or bar worker believes a patron has had enough, they’re required by law not to supply any more alcohol to that customer and to ensure the patron leaves the licensed premises.  Serving alcohol or allowing an intoxicated person to remain on licensed premises could result in significant penalties for bar staff, managers and put the bar’s licence in jeopardy,” says HANZ chief executive, Bruce Robertson.
 
He says that none of the Association's members wish to be killjoys, but they are trained to spot drinkers who are heading towards "a drink too many".

“When that is pointed out to customers, they should appreciate that the hospitality worker is just doing their job and showing concern for the patron, and it's really as simple as that,” he said.  

“It is important that patrons take responsibility for their drinking behaviour and the hospitality industry has a vital role to support patrons drinking in moderation and not getting to the point of intoxication.”

Mr Robertson says operators treasure their patrons and want to see them have a good night out, get home safely and return again, so staff are saying ‘merry Christmas and a happy new year – but know when to stop rather than us having to tell you’.

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