4. Your application is assessed
This process takes at least 30 working days.
Note: You may be contacted at any stage if we need more information, or there's opposition to your application.
Acknowledgement – 2 working days
You'll receive an acknowledgement email from the secretary of the District Licensing Committee (DLC) within 2 working days of submitting your application.
The email will tell you if your application has been accepted or rejected, and request any further documents that may be required.
Police assessment – 15 working days
Your application will be considered and reported on by the Police, who will inform the Council of any convictions or concerns they have with your application.
Interview with a licensing inspector
You'll also be interviewed by a licensing inspector who will assess your suitability to hold a manager's certificate and test your knowledge of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act and host responsibilities. This will take 30 minutes.
If you don't attend your scheduled interview or fail it then the licensing inspector may request you do the interview again or oppose your application.
The Manager's Guide can help you prepare for your interview
Licensing inspector assessment – about 5 working days
An alcohol licensing inspector:
- considers the application and the Police report
- submits a report to the DLC for a decision.
If your application is not opposed, the DLC will review your application.
5. If your application is approved
You'll receive the decision by email.
If your manager's certificate application is approved, you'll receive your certificate by email and you can start to manage a licensed business straight away.
You'll need to renew your manager's certificate after the first 12 months – then every 3 years after that before the expiry date.
Your responsibilities as a manager
6. If there's opposition
If your application is opposed, you'll need to present your case at a hearing.
If there's opposition to your manager's certificate application
Need help?
You can phone or email an alcohol licensing inspector. They're available Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Alcohol Licensing
Phone: 04 801 3760
Email: AlcoholApplications@wcc.govt.nz