Readers may have noted in the Local Democracy report in this newspaper (‘Liquor sale restrictions, page 3 November 24, 2023) that from February 12, 2024, they may not purchase alcohol from retailers until 10am.

The Government sets the hours for the Sale and Supply of Alcohol as from 7am to 11pm. The Tauranga City Council Strategy Risk and Finance committee has taken upon itself to override the national law. There is only one sole voice on that Committee with this finance and risk experience.  The remainder is made up of four Commissioners, three tangata whenua representatives.

Five members must be physically present to form a quorum, and at least three commissioners and two externally-appointed members must be present and a non-voting chairman of Tauranga Moana. This is interesting because Bruce Robertson is the only external appointee available. The result is that retail outlets are not only deprived of customary sales revenue they are to be asked to help police the law physically and at the checkout. Buyers who may have wished to include a bottle of wine with their take-home groceries will be deprived of early organised shopping. There are no winners here. Perhaps TCC members and representatives could change their agenda and start working for the people who pay them.

Rayna Stephens, Pāpāmoa Beach.

*Editor’s note: TCC announced Tuesday, December 5, it has hit pause on adopting an updated Local Alcohol Policy following several requests from people wanting to discuss the impacts of the changes.