Hastings pub loses licence over teen party

A Hastings pub has lost its licence for two days after hosting what police believe was a farewell party for a 16-year-old with drunken underage teens in attendance.

Police referred the Angus Hotel to the Liquor Licensing Authority after police found it holding a function in December with several underage and intoxicated people present, Sergeant Mike Stevenson said.

He said it was a reminder to all licensed premises that even when holding private functions, the law must be obeyed.

"It's simple, people on licensed premises must be 18 or over, unless the licence allows them to be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Private functions on licensed premises are subject to the same laws."

The duty manager working on the night would also have her manager's certificate suspended for a month.

The Government has recently cracked down on underage drinking, with new liquor laws that prevent 18-year-olds from buying at liquor stores and require written permission from parents to drink at parties.

- NZPA