Gisborne Liquor Store Licence Challenged Amid Concerns of Public Disorder

A liquor store in Gisborne, Latest Zealand, is facing scrutiny as its licence renewal is challenged due to complaints of public disorder and safety concerns. Kaiti Red Door Liquor, located in the Kaiti Hub, has operated for 20 years without previous issues, but recent objections from a school principal, community members, and a council inspector have brought its future into question.

School Principal Raises Alarm Over “Day Club” Atmosphere

Kaiti School principal Billie-Jean Potaka Ayton voiced strong opposition to the licence renewal at a District Licensing Committee hearing on Monday. She described the area surrounding the store as having transformed into a “local night club or day club,” characterized by litter, including empty bottles and cans, and instances of public urination. She expressed concerns for the safety of her students, particularly as they travel to and from school.

Potaka Ayton represents over 400 students, 50 staff members, the school board of trustees, and the families of Kaiti School. She highlighted an incident where a nanny was verbally harassed whereas walking a child past the bus shelter near the liquor store.

Community and Council Echo Concerns

The concerns extend beyond the school. Medical Officer of Health Dr. Douglas Lush and the district council’s district licensing inspectorate, Dr. Vincenzo Petrella, also opposed the application. Residents Kristen Maynard and Lizz Crawford, manager of Oasis Homeless Shelter, also lodged objections, represented by counsel Dr. Liz Gordon.

Dr. Gordon emphasized the importance of incorporating Māori principles (tikanga Māori) and the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi into the proceedings, given Kaiti’s predominantly Māori community. Both the Medical Officer of Health and the licensing inspector noted the social deprivation within the area.

The Medical Officer of Health’s submission suggested that alcohol sales from the store could contribute to harm, including domestic and sexual violence, foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and road accidents. They argued that a responsible licensee in a vulnerable community would tailor their product offerings to minimize harm.

Liquor Store Disputes Claims, Highlights Existing Measures

Representing Red Door Liquor, solicitor Sarah Rawcliffe stated the applicant’s commitment to compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act. She noted that police initially opposed the renewal but withdrew their opposition after engaging with the applicant.

Martinus Jan van der Velde, director of V D V Ventures Ltd (2001), acknowledged the issues at the bus stop and outlined steps taken to address them. These include increased signage indicating an alcohol-free zone, a trespass policy for unacceptable behavior, and enhanced CCTV coverage. The store also stopped selling Scrumpy and implemented restrictions on single sales of beer, RTDs, and shots, requiring purchases to be 500ml or larger (except for craft beer). Exterior advertising of alcohol products and pricing has also been removed.

A minimum price of $6.49 per 500ml unit of beer was agreed upon with police for single sales. Gisborne District Council’s amended Alcohol Control Bylaw, enacted in October 2025, already prohibits drinking in the area around the school and hub.

Police Engagement and Committee Deliberation

Police initially filed opposition but withdrew it after engagement with the applicant. The District Licensing Committee chair, Pat Seymour, and members Roger Matthews and Paulette Goddard conducted a site visit on Sunday afternoon, finding an empty beer box and a can, though their age was uncertain.

The District Licensing Committee’s decision is expected within 15 working days.