Licensed premises must have a certified manager on duty at all times when liquor is being sold or supplied to the public - except in the case of some special licences and endorsed licences. The duty manager's name must be prominently displayed inside the premises.
The manager's key responsibilities are to:
- comply and enforce the provisions of the Sale of Liquor Act
- comply and enforce the conditions of the licence
- monitor the conduct of patrons
- promote responsible drinking and reduce alcohol abuse.
Temporary / Acting Manager
If a certified manager is ill, absent, dismissed or resigned, the licensee may appoint either an uncertified temporary manager, or an uncertified acting manager. Notification is required and certain conditions apply.
Application Process
To apply for a Manager's Certificate, you must have a certificate from a Sale of Liquor course within the last two years, or a relevant NZQA-approved qualification for bar managers. All applicants must be currently employed in the hospitality industry.
From 1 April 2006, you must have a Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) before you can apply for a Manager's Certificate, or renew your current General Manager's Certificate.
The District Licensing Agency (DLA) forwards a copy of your application to the Police for a report. Then you are interviewed by a DLA Inspector on your knowledge of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989, who also submits a report.
If there are no objections to your application and you pass the interview, then you will receive your Manager's Certificate. Otherwise, the LLA will determine your application.
A list of Sale of Liquor Act course providers in Wellington is attached to the application form.
Manager's Certificate Application (142Kb PDF)
Application Requirements
In addition to completing the correct form, you need to provide the following:
- two copies of the application and all documentation
- a $132 fee
- two written work references from within the last year that attest to your character, reputation and relevant capabilities at your current place of employment (family references are not acceptable)
- a copy of your Sale of Liquor course certificate (if applying for a Club Manager's Certificate) or Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) (if applying for a General Manager's Certificate)
- the name of the licensed premises you intend to manage
- (club licensed managers) evidence of your involvement in managing the club's activities
- a list of the current duties that you undertake at your place of employment
Renewing Your Certificate
You must apply to renew your Manager's Certificate before it expires. Your original certificate is valid for one year after which it can be renewed for three-year periods.
If you fail to meet the renewal deadline, you will have to apply for a new Manager's Certificate (including the interview and test), and may even need to attend another Sale of Liquor course.
The DLA forwards your renewal application to the Police and Licensing Inspector for their reports. If there are no objections your certificate will be renewed. Otherwise it will be forwarded to the LLA to be determined.
Manager's Certificate Renewal Application (75Kb PDF)
Application Requirements for Manager's Certificate Renewals
In addition to completing the correct form, you need to provide the following:
- two copies of the application and all documentation
- a $132 fee
- a copy of your Licence Controller Qualification
- a copy of your original manager's certificate
- a copy of your most recent renewal certificate (if applicable)
Related Links
- Notice of Appointment of Manager (32Kb PDF)
- Is a certified manager required for my event (26Kb PDF)
Department Details:
Building Consents & Licensing Services
