The Castlepoint Hotel in Novel Zealand has announced its closure following the lifting of a stay on the revocation of its alcohol license, sparking a strong reaction from the local community.
Community Response and Council Position
The decision by the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA) to lift the stay – initially granted pending an appeal – followed breaches of conditions attached to the stay on New Year’s Eve. These breaches included allowing patrons who had been asked to leave the premises to return, and serving a patron who was already intoxicated. The announcement of the closure on the hotel’s Facebook page generated over 1700 reactions, with more than 800 expressing sadness through emojis.
Masterton District Council chief executive Kym Fell expressed disappointment with some of the reactions to the alcohol ban, stating the council believes some frustration has been “misdirected.” Fell emphasized that ARLA, an independent body chaired by a District Court Judge, made the decision, and council staff were fulfilling their legal obligations regarding public safety.
Concerns Over Public Safety
Fell explained that the council’s licensing inspector acted within the law when reporting breaches of agreed conditions, including intoxicated patrons remaining on site. He stated the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 is designed to ensure responsible alcohol sales. Fell further noted the potential consequences of inaction, suggesting the council could face criticism if an intoxicated person caused harm after leaving the venue.
The council confirmed the venue can continue to operate as a food, non-alcoholic drink, and accommodation provider, but the owners have chosen to close the entire operation. Fell clarified that the license refusal stemmed from management practices, not from any failure by council staff or ARLA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the lifting of the stay on the hotel’s alcohol license?
The stay was lifted after the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA) found conditions attached to the stay were breached on New Year’s Eve, including allowing intoxicated patrons to return to the pub after being asked to leave and serving another intoxicated patron.
What is the council’s position on the closure?
Masterton District Council chief executive Kym Fell is disappointed with some reactions to the alcohol ban, but maintains that the decision was made by an independent body, ARLA, and that council staff were fulfilling their legal obligations.
Can the Castlepoint Hotel still operate?
Yes, the venue can still operate as a venue for food, non-alcoholic drinks, and accommodation, but the owners have decided to close the entire operation.
As the hotel’s owners prepare for closure, and with an appeal against the original license refusal scheduled for February 25, what impact will this situation have on the Castlepoint community in the long term?
