"[But] they relate primarily with the suitability of the applicant for both of those licenses, as well as that they have sufficient staff training and systems to comply with the responsibilities under the Act to reduce alcohol related harm."
Sex entrepreneurs John and Michael Chow own the Mermaid Bar and Splash Club.
In 2012, they were ordered to close their doors for two nights after the death of a patron.
Peter Black, who had spent an evening drinking at some Wellington Bars, including Mermaids and the Splash Club, died when he fell head-first into a water-filled drain.
He had spent up to six hours at the clubs, including four hours with one employee, before spending time with another in a spa pool.
During those hours he continued to drink, Coroner Garry Evans said in his inquest report into the death.
Last month the Chow brothers dropped a bid to open a controversial 15-storey brothel in central Auckland.
The brothers have been locked in a long-term battle with Calendar Girls' Auckland owner Jacqui Le Prou, who opposed the brothers' liquor licence renewal for their two clubs in Karangahape Rd and Gore St.
At a colourful two-day hearing in January, Ms Le Prou called sex workers formerly employed by the Chows to testify against them. They alleged the brothers were regularly intoxicated at work and would intimidate women working at the club.
The Wellington Calendar Girls is in receivership after losing its liquor licence following opposition from the Chows.
Ms Le Prou declined to comment on the issue.
The Chow brothers were unavailable for comment, as was Calendar Girls' receiver Murray Allott.
