Latest Controlled Purchase Operation of alcohol retailers results in zero sales to minors

New Zealand Police and the National Public Health Service are pleased with the latest result from a Controlled Purchase Operation (CPO) of alcohol retailers in the greater Whangārei area. 

The operation involved underage volunteers, aged 17, attempting to purchase alcohol from off-licence premises. Eighteen outlets were tested resulting in zero sales. 

“The result is excellent,” said Whangārei Police Alcohol Harm Prevention Officer Sergeant Tai Patrick. 

“The 18 off-licence premises tested have appropriate systems in place and asked for identification on every occasion. The last two operations carried out in the Whangārei area found premises that sold alcohol in each operation to our young people, so I am very encouraged by this result.” 

CPOs are part of an ongoing programme to assess compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 to address access to alcohol by minors. 

“While young people appear to be drinking less than before, more than half of 15- to 17-year-olds in Aotearoa New Zealand reported drinking in the past year,” said National Public Health Service Medical Officer of Health, Dr Ankush Mittal. 

“Even small amounts of alcohol can cause damage to the developing brain and increases the risk of accidents and injuries. 

“Young people are highly vulnerable to alcohol-related harms so when alcohol retailers break the law and sell alcohol to minors, it increases harm to young people and to our communities. 

“We urge all licensed premises to ensure they have appropriate systems in place to avoid selling alcohol to minors.” 

-Ends- 

Notes to editors: 

The Northern Region of the National Public Health Service is responsible for protecting and promoting health in Te Tai Tokerau – Northland and Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. The regional service was formed following the merger of Ngā Tai Ora - Public Health Northland and Auckland Regional Public Health Service, as part of the Pae Ora health reforms. The service is an agency of Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora. 

Spokespeople for interview requests: 

Sergeant Tai Patrick

Alcohol Harm Prevention Officer

Whangārei & Kaipara

Media contact: 09 3533 111; media@police.govt.nz

Dr Ankush Mittal

Medical Officer of Health

National Public Health Service – Northern Region

Media contact (NPHS – Northern Region): 021 243 2421; arphsmedia@adhb.govt.nz

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