Police disappointed with alcohol sales to minors in Auckland

Three Auckland liquor stores have been found selling alcohol to underage customers. Photo / NZME

Three Auckland liquor stores have been caught selling alcohol to underage customers.

Auckland City Police said it is “disappointed” by the store owners’ failure to adhere to basic requirements.

Police said a joint Controlled Purchase Operation was carried out at over 30 suburban licensed premises across Auckland City.

The operation checked compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, which prohibits selling alcohol to minors.

The Auckland City Alcohol Harm Prevention Unit and Auckland Council licensing inspectors carried out the operation over the last three weeks.

Sergeant Michael Haydon said three stores failed.

“We’re really disappointed to report below 100% compliance, in that three out of the 36 sites tested failed in their obligations,” Haydon said.

“A very basic requirement for anyone selling alcohol is to ask for ID and then calculate the correct age from that identification.”

He said police and Auckland Council will now refer the three stores to the Alcohol Regulatory Licensing Authority for further action.

Haydon said there is no excuse for basic failings.

“It’s a privilege, and not a right, for licensees and duty managers to be granted the ability to sell alcohol. Three sales to a minor are three too many.

“We are however pleased to see that 33 sites were compliant and correct in their processes and actions,” Haydon said.

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