Types of Liquor Licences
The type of activity or business you plan will determine the type of liquor licence you will need.
Applying for a liquor license can be a complex task. We recommend that you seek advice in correctly interpreting regulations and determining the type of licence you require. Specialist advice is available by checking in the Yellow Pages under Liquor Industry Consultants. You can also confirm the licence type by checking the Sale of Liquor Act 1989.
| Example | Type Required |
| Occasion, event or series of occasions. E.g. weddings, wine tastings, birthdays. | Special Licence |
| Incorporated clubs. E.g. sports clubs, social clubs, regular office drinks. | Club Licence |
| Premises or conveyances that serve drinks and provide corkage/glasses. E.g. BYO premises, hotels, taverns, restaurants, night clubs. | On Licence |
| Premises that only provide corkage/glasses (BYO only). | Endorsed On Licence |
| Premises that sell alcohol but don't serve it. E.g. liquor stores, supermarkets, wine shops. | Off Licence |
| New owner of existing licensed premises. | A Temporary Authority is required when a new entity takes over an existing licensed premises and wishes to continue the sale and or supply of liquor until their own licence is issued. Temporary Authority |
| Catering | Caterer's Endorsed Off Licence |
| Internet Distributers | Off Licence |
| Winemakers |
Winemakers are no longer required to hold a licence under the Sale of Liquor Act 1989. Wine makers are now dealt with under the Wine Act 2003. New Zealand Food Safety Authority |
