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Buller's District Licencing Committee

Alcohol licensing in Buller is overseen by the District Licensing Agency (Buller District Council).

About the District Licencing Committee

The District Licencing Committee (DLC) is responsible for determining all new alcohol licences and managers’ certificates plus renewal applications throughout the Buller District.  

The role of the licensing committee members is to provide a quality service to the council and its customers and exercise the DLC’s powers and functions under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Committee members serve a term of five years from their appointment date in a paid, part-time capacity.

What does the District Licensing Committee do?

In 2024, the Buller DLC issued 115 managers certificates, 37 licences, 75 special licences and there were two hearings. Committee members are only required to attend hearings.

While there are no formal qualifications required to be a DLC chair or committee member, the council is keen to reflect the diversity of the community it serves. Desirable skills and experience include:

  • Knowledge of alcohol licensing and the legal framework around it
  • An understanding of the impact of alcohol-related harm on communities
  • An understanding of local Māori communities and the cultural and ethnic make-up of local communities, including their aspirations, concerns and expectations about alcohol and alcohol-related harm
  • Experience applying legislative and regulatory frameworks
  • Knowledge of, and familiarity with the conduct of public hearings
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • The highest standard of professional and personal integrity.

Buller District Council is currently seeking applications from community-minded people to fill two vacant positions on the District Licencing Committee (DLC).  

Expressions of interest are now open, and council encourages people who have an understanding of alcohol-related harm and how it affects Buller’s communities to consider applying. 

When filling these positions, Council is looking for people who can demonstrate impartiality and integrity and commit to the principles of natural justice and a sense of fair play. 

The DLC roles are part-time, and candidates need to be available for flexible working hours. As a member, you can expect to participate in between one to four hearings per year. Hearings can vary in length, from one hour up to several days, with most cases dealt with within one to two days. 

Work will be on an ‘as required’ basis, compensated at the remuneration rate set by the Minister of Justice. 

Interested persons are encouraged to refer to the position description to see if they meet the requirements for consideration. 

Applications are open now – interested persons are encouraged to refer to the position description to see if they meet the requirements for consideration.  

You cannot apply if you are involved with the alcohol industry or are a constable, Medical Officer of Health, licensing inspector or an employee of the territorial authority.

Applications close Thursday, 1 May 2025, at 4:30 pm.