Proposed alcohol policy open for consultation in Napier and Hastings

Published: 14 March 2025

Changes to alcohol trading hours, bottle store location rules, and safety requirements for licensed premises are open for consultation in Hastings and Napier.

Hastings District Council (HDC) and Napier City Council (NCC) are reviewing their Local Alcohol Policies (LAPs) with the community invited to have its say on the proposals from Friday 14 March until Monday 14 April.
Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst encourages the community to have its say.

“Alcohol policies play a vital role in balancing a safe and thriving hospitality sector with community wellbeing. It’s important that we hear from residents and businesses to ensure we get this right.”

Mayor Kirsten Wise agrees, saying it’s important the community, and especially those the policy affects the most, share their feedback.

“Night life is an important part of our city but we have to weigh up where, how and when it is sold to minimise the risks of the harm it can cause.”

Under the proposed policies, bars, pubs, and nightclubs would close at 2am instead of 3am, with a one-way door restriction from 1am.

By closing on-licences an hour earlier, both councils aim to create a safer night-time environment while still supporting a responsible hospitality sector.

To improve safety, councils are proposing additional discretionary controls that a licensing committee must consider when deciding on alcohol license applications.

The proposed policies build on input from New Zealand Police, health experts, and alcohol licensing inspectors.

Public consultation will run from 14 March to 14 April 2025, with hearings scheduled for April.

Submissions for Napier can be made by;

• Online here
• Email: info@napier.govt.nz
• In person: Napier City Council 215 Hastings Street Napier 4110

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