An appeal against a controversial new liquor store in Onerahi has been thrown out, although opponents may take the matter to the High Court.
In April, Northland medical officer of health Clair Mills and 11 concerned residents appealed against the proposed Onerahi Liquor Centre, saying it would increase alcohol-related harm. They defined that as booze-related crimes, domestic violence, drink-driving and hospital admissions.
However, the national alcohol authority says the Whangarei District Licensing Committee got it right the first time by allowing the application.
In its decision, the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA) rejected the appellants' claims that the licensing committee should have refused the application.
On December 10, the committee granted the new off-licence to Akos Acquisitions, owned by Edward Jones and his partner Eva Hizsnyai, making it the fourth off-licence in Onerahi.