Three liquor stores sold alcohol to minors during a recent controlled purchase operation across Auckland City suburbs.

The operation, run by the Auckland City Alcohol Harm Prevention Unit alongside Auckland Council licensing inspectors, tested 36 suburban licensed premises over the past three weeks for compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

“We’re really disappointed to report below 100 per cent compliance, in that three out of the thirty-six sites tested failed in their obligations,” said Sergeant Michael Haydon of the Auckland City District Alcohol Harm Prevention Unit. “A very basic requirement for anyone selling alcohol is to ask for ID and then calculate the correct age from that identification.”

Police and Auckland Council will refer the three stores to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority for further action.

Sergeant Haydon said Police “work closely with partner agencies to reduce alcohol-related harm across the community and there is no excuse for basic failings,” adding: “It’s a privilege, and not a right, for licensees and duty managers to be granted the ability to sell alcohol. Three sales to a minor are three too many. We are however pleased to see that thirty-three sites were compliant and correct in their processes and actions.”

Controlled purchase operations are routinely carried out nationwide by Police, Health, and Council licensing inspectors.

Concerns about the sale and supply of alcohol to minors can be reported to Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, by calling 105, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.