The Golden Age Tavern in Bluff is currently awaiting a decision on whether it can continue to sell alcohol after several authorities raised formal objections to the renewal of its licenses.
Licensing Hearing Highlights Systemic Failures
During a recent Invercargill District licensing committee hearing, officials detailed a series of “red flags” discovered during a joint inspection in March. The inspection was conducted by health protection officer Karla James and alcohol licensing inspector Sarah Nicol.
Inspector Nicol reported a complete lack of staff rosters, training systems, and duty managers’ logs. She noted that Tony ‘Hank’ Low, the applicant, was the only certified manager appointed, despite an expired certificate for another manager being displayed on the wall.
Further concerns were raised regarding food safety and operational promises. Nicol stated that Low was unable to identify a specific item in a freezer, suggesting it “would be soup,” and noted that a promised courtesy coach was unavailable due to staff shortages.
Tavern Defense and Testimony
At the hearing, Tony Low was supported by staffer Rochelle Kellor and Haylee-Chanel Simeon, who operates the adjacent restaurant, Hayz at the Anchorage. Simeon testified that a freezer failure had caused “chaotic” conditions regarding food at the time of the inspection.
Regarding the missing courtesy coach, Low explained that the signage indicating its unavailability was posted in 2023 after two employees left and should have been removed. He stated that patrons are currently dropped home by himself, his sister, Kellor, or Simeon.
Kellor testified that she had worked with Low for three years and received training, although she conceded this had not been officially recorded.
Regulatory Stakes and Potential Outcomes
Stephanie Bekhuis-Pay, the delegated medical officer of health, emphasized that holding an alcohol license is a “privilege not a right.” She has called for any granted license to be truncated, which would allow the tavern to be subject to random checks.
The decision regarding the on and off licenses now rests with committee members Andrea de Vries, Ria Bond, and Chair Darren Ludlow. All three members disclosed they know Simeon but have not discussed the hearing with her.
Chair Ludlow indicated that a final outcome could take up to 20 working days. During the proceedings, Low—one of five directors for Golden Age (2018) Ltd—suggested that the tavern could be placed on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific issues were found during the March inspection?
Inspectors found no staff training system, no roster, and no duty managers’ log. There were concerns over unidentifiable food in a freezer and the unavailability of a promised courtesy coach.
Who is responsible for the final decision on the licenses?
The decision is in the hands of the Invercargill District Licensing Committee members: Darren Ludlow, Ria Bond, and Andrea de Vries.
What is the proposed “truncated” license?
Suggested by medical officer of health Stephanie Bekhuis-Pay, a truncated license would mean the tavern could be checked at random by authorities.
Do you believe strict licensing documentation is necessary for small-town establishments, or should there be more flexibility for long-standing local businesses?
