An Auckland karaoke bar, Deluxe in Mt Albert, has lost its ability to sell alcohol after its shareholder withdrew its application to renew its liquor license during a hearing with the Auckland District Licensing Committee (DLC). The move came after the shareholder, Simon Yip, terminated the employment of the bar’s only two qualified duty managers.
License Renewal Faces Scrutiny
The hearing, held on Monday, concerned the on-licence for Uea Entertainment Limited, which operates Deluxe. Police records presented to the DLC detailed concerns including alleged intoxication, security lapses, inconsistent record-keeping, and the sale of alcohol past its expiration date.
Further complicating matters, police reported an incident in August 2023 where a man was found unresponsive at the premises while searching for his phone. He later died in hospital from a drug overdose, though the location where the drugs were taken remains unknown. Two months later, the bar received an infringement notice for selling spirits in measures exceeding 500ml, with allegations that staff were decanting larger bottles into smaller servings.
Dramatic Turn in Hearing
During the hearing, Yip, through legal counsel Deep Purusram, acknowledged past issues but expressed a commitment to improvement. He stated he was training staff, despite lacking a Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ), relying on prior hospitality experience. However, following questioning from DLC chairman Gavin Campbell regarding his understanding of licensing regulations, Yip announced a break and subsequently fired the two duty managers.
When the hearing resumed, Yip informed the committee of the terminations, stating it demonstrated his commitment to change. DLC member FaAfuhia Fia questioned the viability of continuing the application without qualified staff. Yip then withdrew the application, effectively ending Deluxe’s ability to legally sell alcohol.
Future of Deluxe Uncertain
Yip stated Deluxe has ceased operations but is seeking legal advice regarding the possibility of continuing the karaoke business without a liquor license. He characterized the previous issues as stemming from prior management and expressed a desire to transform the establishment into a more family-friendly venue. He claimed he became a shareholder in September 2025 and was unaware of the previous issues, including allegations of underage drinking and sexual activity on the premises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the loss of Deluxe’s liquor license?
The loss of the license stemmed from a combination of factors, including police observations of licensing breaches, complaints from the public, and the shareholder’s decision to withdraw the renewal application after firing the bar’s qualified duty managers during a hearing.
What specific concerns did police raise about Deluxe?
Police cited alleged intoxication, security breaches, inconsistent record-keeping, the sale of expired alcohol, and an incident involving a fatal drug overdose on the premises as key concerns.
What are Yip’s plans for the future of Deluxe?
Yip stated that Deluxe has closed for business, but he is exploring options for continuing the karaoke business without a liquor license, potentially shifting to a more family-oriented model.
How might a change in business model impact the future of Deluxe in the Mt Albert community?
