If you want to supply alcohol at your event, you will need to obtain a special license. According to the Sale and Supply of Liquor Act 2012, anyone supplying or selling liquor outside of their residential property (e.g. outdoor spaces and community halls) requires a special license. The Whakatane District Licensing Committee can also be contacted to obtain up-to-date information on any current Liquor Bans.

A special license is required if:

• Liquor is to be supplied or sold at any function where there is no existing on-license or club license in force
• Liquor is sold or supplied at any function on any unlicensed premises (local hall, parks/reserves) where the caterer does not have an endorsed off-license 
• Liquor is sold or supplied at a function in club premises to persons other than club members or guests
• Liquor is to be sold or supplied outside the hours indicated in an existing on-license or club license
• There is a function with 'ticket sales' - i.e., the cost of liquor may be included in the proceeds from the ticket sale

If you intend to serve and supply alcohol at your event please complete a Special Licence Application or contact the Whakatāne Licensing Inspector for advice. 

For more information, contact:

Licensing Inspector
Make an online enquiry »
liquorlicensing@whakatane.govt.nz
07 306 0500