Concerned about the social impact of underage drinking Eastern Waikato Police conducted a controlled purchase operation over the weekend and were pleasantly surprised with the results.
Sergeant Neil Mansill of the Matamata-Piako Strategic Traffic Unit said the operation, using a 16-year-old volunteer, tested licensees at a variety of on and 0ff-licence premises in Matamata, Te Aroha, Morrinsville and Waihöu.
"In all 11 premises were checked to see if they would check the identity of our underage volunteer and I'm pleased to report only one of the business failed to meet their obligations under the Sale of Liquor Act.
"While we would've preferred no breaches, to find only one outlet over such a widespread area breaching the act is confirmation that the efforts of Police, the Liquor Licensing Authority , Waikato District Health Board and licensees themselves is worthwhile."
Mr Mansill said the offending Te Aroha outlet will be referred to the Liquor Licensing Authority. The employee who sold the alcohol may yet face action in the District Court.
"With the recent issues surrounding the consumption of alcohol by minors we've seen how high the stakes can be in relation to selling or providing alcohol to these minors.
" Bar and wholesale staff need to be aware that should they sell alcohol to a minor not only do they risk prosecution in the District Court, the duty managers also face a period of suspension of their managers license along with the business who also face a suspension of their licenses by the Liquors Licensing Authority.
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