Liquor licence requirements for party buses to change

16 July 2008

As from the end of next month party bus operators will need to apply for a different form of liquor licence in order to continue operating in their current form.

At present party bus operators have been obtaining a special licence which is valid for a month at a time. 

Christchurch City Council’s legal services unit has now advised that the current licences, which allow for sale and supply of alcohol, are not appropriate as it doesn’t cover the consumption of BYO alcohol on the bus. Special licences in their current form for party buses will only be issued to cover the period ending August 31.

The Liquor Licensing Team Leader, Paul Rogers, says the type of individual operations will determine if a liquor licence is needed and if so what sort of licence will be most appropriate for the business.

Consumption of liquor on a bus which is carrying passengers for reward is illegal unless a liquor licence has been obtained. If such a licence hasn’t been obtained than an offence is committed by the person supplying  and anyone on board consuming liquor.

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