Super Liquor has applied to open a new off-licence store on Ardmore St in central Wanaka. This would be the second Super Liquor outlet in the popular lakeside town.
Local residents, with the support of Communities Against Alcohol Harm, are gearing up to lodge objections against the application. They are citing research that shows a correlation between the density of alcohol outlets and increased harm, such as family violence and assault.
Previously, Lake Hawea Voices led a campaign that resulted in 542 public objections to a Super Liquor store in Lake Hawea. Despite the district licensing committee approving the application, the community is planning to appeal the decision.
Spokesperson Lisa Riley has voiced opposition to the proposed Wanaka store, highlighting the rapid response of 40 objections within the first 24 hours of concerns being raised on social media.
Riley emphasizes that the issue is not about being against business or choice, but about acknowledging the high number of alcohol outlets in Wanaka and the proven link between increased outlets and harm.
Research in New Zealand has shown that more alcohol outlets lead to more police callouts for assault and disorder, especially in residential areas. Medical officers of health have also expressed concerns about the link between off-licences and hazardous drinking.
Riley criticizes the recent decision regarding the Hawea store, stating that it failed to adequately consider the evidence of alcohol-related harm at that specific site. She argues that alcohol licensing laws should focus on minimizing harm proactively rather than waiting for harm to occur.
This ongoing debate highlights the challenges faced by fast-growing residential communities in applying alcohol licensing laws effectively.
