Walters, re [2003] NZLLA 250 (16 April 2003)

New Zealand Liquor Licensing Authority

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Walters, re [2003] NZLLA 250 (16 April 2003)

Last Updated: 6 March 2010

Decision No. PH 250/2003

IN THE MATTER of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989

AND

IN THE MATTER of an application by CRAIG WILLIAM WALTERS pursuant to s.118 of the Act for a General Manager’s Certificate

BEFORE THE LIQUOR LICENSING AUTHORITY

Chairman: District Court Judge E W Unwin
Member: Mr J C Crookston

HEARING at WELLINGTON on 4 April 2003

APPEARANCES

No appearance by or on behalf of the applicant
Mr R S Putze – Wellington District Licensing Agency Inspector – in opposition

ORAL DECISION OF THE AUTHORITY

[1] This is an application by Craig William Walters for a General Manager’s Certificate.

[2] Mr Walters filed his application back on 10 August 2001. In accordance with normal procedure, a letter was sent to him from the Agency acknowledging the application, and requesting that he contact the writer to arrange a date and time for an interview.

[3] To assist in compiling an Inspector’s report, all applicants are interviewed to establish their experience, qualifications, and knowledge of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989. Notwithstanding follow-up messages, Mr Walters has consistently failed to make an appointment for an interview. This is the only impediment towards his being granted a General Manager’s Certificate.

[4] When Mr Walters was contacted by the Authority’s staff in preparation for this hearing, he indicated that he would try and complete the test, and indeed contact the District Licensing Agency Inspector. Not only has he not done so, but he has not appeared to support his application. This is a pity, because Mr Walters has been the owner of “Trekkers Bar” since 1995. He has employed staff from time to time, and many of his certificated general managers have schooled him in host responsibility, and educated him in the requirements of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989.

[5] Mr Walters has completed a seminar on the Sale of Liquor Act and host responsibility, conducted by D A Richards & Associates NZ Limited. There are a number of positive references, and indeed there is no opposition from the Police.

[6] The only issue is whether Mr Walters has the requisite knowledge and experience, so that his suitability can be confirmed. In the light of his absence from the hearing, and his failure to meet with the Inspector, we have no option other than to refuse the application.

[7] It is accordingly refused.

DATED at WELLINGTON this 16th day of April 2003

Judge E W Unwin Mr J C Crookston
Chairman Member

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