New World Supermarket Faces Five-Day Liquor Licence Suspension

A supermarket in central Wellington has had its liquor licence suspended for five days after it was found selling alcohol to a minor during a police operation. The New World Metro on Willis Street was subjected to a controlled purchase operation in June, which led to the involvement of the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority.

The police successfully submitted an application for the suspension, which will be in effect from August 20 to August 25, 2023. This decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with alcohol sale regulations. Daniel Hay, the supermarket’s manager, has also seen his personal liquor licence revoked for 28 days, from August 25 until September 21, 2023.

Courtney Grocer, the parent company of New World Metro, did not contest the application presented by the police. This lack of opposition indicates the company’s acknowledgment of the incident and its commitment to rectifying the situation.

The police operation aimed to mitigate underage drinking and enforce stricter compliance among retailers selling alcohol. Incidents like these are taken seriously by authorities as they pose significant risks to public health and safety.

In light of this suspension, there is an expectation that New World Metro will take immediate steps to enhance staff training regarding the sale of alcohol. Such measures are crucial for preventing future violations and maintaining community trust.

With alcohol-related incidents remaining a concern in many urban areas, the outcome of this case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible retailing. The suspension period could also impact sales for New World Metro, particularly in a competitive market where customer loyalty and trust are paramount.

As the supermarket navigates this setback, its response will be watched closely by both consumers and regulatory bodies alike.