5. Your application is assessed
This process can take at least 20 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 Alcohol Licensing team 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 documentation that may be required.
Police assessment – 15 working days
Your application will be considered by the Police who may provide a report of any convictions or concerns they have with your application.
Licensing inspector assessment – about 5 working days
An alcohol licensing inspector:
- considers the application and the Police report
- may visit your site or talk to you about how you will manage your business
- submits a report to the DLC for a decision.
6. Your application is approved or declined
You'll be notified if your application has been approved or declined by post or email.
If the temporary authority is approved, you can continue to sell alcohol at your business for 3 months. During that time you must meet all the conditions of the current licence and requirements of being a licence holder.
Legal requirements for licence holders
7. Apply for your on-licence or off-licence
Because a temporary authority is only valid for 3 months, you need to apply for your own alcohol licence within 15 working days of the temporary authority being issued.
While it's possible to get a second temporary authority, the DLC will expect to see that you've made progress with your new alcohol licence application.
Applying for a new alcohol licence
Need help?
You can meet with an alcohol licensing inspector for free. They're available Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Alcohol Licensing
Phone: 04 801 3760
Email: AlcoholApplications@wcc.govt.nz
Meet with an alcohol licensing inspector