The number of Northland operators caught in police liquor-licensing crackdowns has surprised hospitality industry representatives.
At least 25 enforcement applications were considered by the Licensing Authority against Northland operators in 2012, nine against liquor licence holders and 16 against manager's certificates.
Hospitality NZ Northland Branch president and the owner of Whangarei's Rynoz Bar and Stonegrill, Phil Sentch, said he was surprised to hear the numbers were so high.
Last month two Bay of Islands off-licence liquor outlets were snapped selling alcohol to minors during a transtasman police sting.
Mr Sentch said hospitality operators knew about the checks, which served as a reminder "to make sure everyone is behaving".