Liquor licence question hangs over private party

James Webster. Photo / Supplied

Questions have been raised over whether the party schoolboy James Webster attended before his death last weekend had been licensed to serve alcohol.

Auckland City Council said no special liquor licence was granted for the 18th birthday party at the Grey Lynn Returned Services Social Club, which is not affiliated to the RSA.

James, 16, was drinking in a car outside the party. He was later taken to one of the host's homes and put to bed, where he was found dead the following morning.

Council liquor licensing team leader Sarah Noble said under a club liquor licence only members, their guests or members of reciprocal clubs could be served alcohol.

Private events at the venue would require a special licence, but none had been granted. A club committee member, Jane Jackson, said the death was tragic but the club weren't able to comment until after the coroner's investigation was complete.

Police wouldn't comment on whether licensing matters were being looked at, or whether the non-sworn police employee who was a host at the party would be spoken to.

Auckland area commander Inspector Andrew Coster said the circumstances surrounding the death were a matter for the coroner and police extended their "sincere sympathy" to James' family and friends.