Temporary authority

If you are thinking of purchasing a business that currently has an existing licence, you can apply for a temporary authority.

The temporary authority allows a new licensee to operate an existing licensed premises and to trade, for a period of up to three months, under the existing licence conditions and terms. This gives the new licensee time to lodge a new application to be considered by the District Licensing Committee (DLC).

A second temporary authority will not be issued unless a full (substantive) licence application has been lodged with the DLC.

Required information

  • A document showing ‘proof of tenure’ or ‘purchase agreement’
  • A copy of the applicant’s manager’s certificate or a copy of manager’s certificate of any person employed by the applicant
  • Any relevant experience and training of applicant

Apply for temporary authority

Alternatively email your application to records@wmk.govt.nz and a reference number will be forwarded to you to quote when making payment.

Methods of payment

Accepted methods of payment are either by cash, eftpos or internet banking. If you want to pay your application fee by internet banking please email in your completed application to records@wmk.govt.nz. Council staff will contact you by email with a reference number for payment. Processing of your application will commence once payment has been received.

Process and timeline

Once your application has been received with the appropriate fee, a Licensing Inspector will be in contact with you to arrange an interview. Once a report from the Police has been received, a comprehensive report will be prepared by the Licensing Inspector. This will be presented, along with your application and associated documentation, to the District Licensing Committee. Council staff will then advise you of the outcome of your application.

The processing time is currently 5-6 weeks.

One of the most common causes where delays are experienced, are applications where all the required documentation has not been included. Please ensure all required documentation is submitted with your application.

Feedback

At Waimakariri District Council we strive to bring you the best possible service. If you have any recommendations in which we can improve our service we would welcome your feedback. Please email the Environmental Services Manager with your recommendations - records@wmk.govt.nz.