Pubs change tack for new law

ADJUSTING: Caroline Norton, pictured in the Aramoho Hotel which she will reopen as Caroline's Boatshed Bar and Eatery, said bar owners would adjust to the impact of new drink-driving laws.A-080814WCSMCAROLINE1

Bars and pubs in Wanganui are already working hard to counter any loss in trade due to the new alcohol limit.

The bill came into effect on Monday, lowering the breath alcohol limit for drivers aged over 20 from 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath to 250mcg. The limit for those under 20 stays at zero.

Caroline Norton, Wanganui branch president of Hospitality New Zealand, said bars and pubs were making the necessary changes in order to keep customers going to their venues.

"People now are becoming more conscious of alcohol and driving," she said.

"In some instances, it will affect people but it's just like anything - just like the no-smoking - some people thought 'Oh, everyone is going to leave us', but you adjust to it accordingly."

Ms Norton, soon to open a new bar and restaurant at the old Aramoho Hotel on Somme Parade after her city centre Celtic bar was destroyed by fire, said: "We are quite educated into it now.

"We know what the repercussions to it will be and we will make the necessary changes, such as finding other ways of attracting people to bars with entertainment and food services."

Rutland Arms manager John Brock said customers were already wary of drinking and driving.

"The lower limit is targeting the wrong people - the law should be targeting repeat offenders.

"As it stands now, the new limits will just punish people going out for a meal and a few drinks rather than the people actually offending."

Mr Brock said it was not going to do business any good, "but we are trying to broaden our range of non-alcoholic beverages and provide lower-strength beer so people can still enjoy a drink and not worry about being over the limit."

Transport ministry data reveals a drop in the number of drink-driving offences in the region - from 760 in 2009 to 505 in 2013.

NZ Transport Agency road-safety director Ernst Zllner said the new limits were necessary and a "game-changer".

"Drink-driving inflicts a huge amount of pain and suffering on New Zealand families and communities.

"This change sends a clear message to those who would put themselves and others at risk by driving while affected by alcohol."