Taking Over an Alcohol Premises (Temporary Authority)
Whakahaeretia he Wāhi Waipiro (Mana Taupua)
What is a Temporary Authority?
If you are taking over a business that already has a current alcohol licence, you can apply for a temporary authority. An alcohol licence cannot be transferred to a new owner. Applying for temporary authority allows you to sell and supply alcohol for up to three months under the existing terms and conditions of the current licence, this gives you time to lodge a new application.
A temporary authority cannot be issued to a club.
How to Apply for Temporary Authority
1. Get all the information together
Read the checklist on the front page of the Temporary Authority Application (PDF, 844KB) to make sure you include all the documents we need.
2. Pay the fee and apply for temporary authority
The non-refundable fee for a temporary authority is $296.70 (including GST).
You can drop off your application to 161 Queen Street, Masterton and pay by cash, eftpos, or credit card.
We will process your application and contact you with the decision. If there are any issues, we will let you know and contact you if we need more information.
How We Assess Your Application
Your application form will be reviewed by:
- NZ police
- One of our alcohol licensing inspectors.
Further Information
You must have a certified manager on duty at all times alcohol is being sold. See more about applying for or renewing a Manager’s Certificate.
For an on-license, you will need to supply food for customers. This means that you will also need to transfer the existing food premises registration.
Outcome of Your Application
We will forward your application to the District Licensing Committee who will make the final decision. If the District Licensing Committee approves your application, we’ll post your temporary authority to you. If there is opposition to your application, we will let you know.
