LCQ Licence Controller Qualification Exam — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What criteria does the DLC consider when deciding whether to grant a licence in NZ?
- Whether the local area already has enough licensed premises
- Only the architectural design of the premises
- Only the applicant's financial situation
- The suitability of the applicant, the nature of the premises, amenity and good order of the locality, and reports from reporting agencies (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The suitability of the applicant, the nature of the premises, amenity and good order of the locality, and reports from reporting agencies
The DLC considers multiple criteria including the applicant's suitability, the nature and location of the premises, the impact on the amenity and good order of the locality, and reports from the three reporting agencies (police, MOH, licensing inspector).
Question 2: In NZ, what is the responsible service approach to serving rounds or 'shouts' of drinks?
- Monitor each person's consumption individually — the fact that drinks are bought in a round does not change the obligation to refuse service to an intoxicated person (Correct answer)
- Rounds are banned under NZ law
- Serve the round but reduce the alcohol content of drinks for intoxicated persons
- Rounds must be refused to prevent over-consumption
Correct answer: Monitor each person's consumption individually — the fact that drinks are bought in a round does not change the obligation to refuse service to an intoxicated person
NZ law does not ban rounds, but duty managers must still monitor each individual's consumption. A person cannot be served simply because someone else is paying. If any individual shows signs of intoxication, they must be refused service regardless of the round.
Question 3: Under the Act, what is the consequence for a manager's certificate holder who is convicted of a relevant offence?
- They automatically lose their certificate for life
- They must retake the LCQ exam within 30 days
- Their manager's certificate may be suspended or cancelled by the licensing authority (Correct answer)
- Nothing — criminal convictions do not affect the manager's certificate
Correct answer: Their manager's certificate may be suspended or cancelled by the licensing authority
If a manager's certificate holder is convicted of a relevant offence (alcohol-related offence, violence, dishonesty), the licensing authority can suspend or cancel their manager's certificate, which prevents them from working as a duty manager.
Question 4: What responsibility does a NZ duty manager have for managing the external areas of licensed premises?
- External areas are outside the licence and not the duty manager's responsibility
- The duty manager is responsible for managing noise, patron behaviour, and safety in outdoor areas, courtyards, and footpath areas covered by the licence (Correct answer)
- External areas are managed by the local council, not the venue
- Only indoor areas are covered by the licence
Correct answer: The duty manager is responsible for managing noise, patron behaviour, and safety in outdoor areas, courtyards, and footpath areas covered by the licence
The duty manager's responsibilities extend to all areas covered by the licence, including outdoor areas, courtyards, smoking areas, and footpath dining areas. They must manage patron behaviour, noise levels, and safety in these areas just as they would inside.
Question 5: What is the main difference between an on-licence and an off-licence in New Zealand?
- On-licence allows sale of spirits; off-licence is limited to beer and wine
- On-licence allows consumption on the premises; off-licence allows sale for consumption elsewhere (Correct answer)
- There is no practical difference — they are interchangeable
- On-licence is for restaurants; off-licence is for bars
Correct answer: On-licence allows consumption on the premises; off-licence allows sale for consumption elsewhere
An on-licence permits the sale and supply of alcohol for consumption on the licensed premises (e.g., restaurants, bars, hotels). An off-licence permits the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises (e.g., bottle stores, supermarkets).
Question 6: In NZ, what information must be included in a licence renewal application?
- A signed statement from all duty managers confirming their LCQ status
- The applicant's details, the premises details, proof of LCQ currency, and a description of any changes to the business since the last licence was granted (Correct answer)
- A full financial statement of the business's alcohol revenue
- Updated architectural plans of the premises only
Correct answer: The applicant's details, the premises details, proof of LCQ currency, and a description of any changes to the business since the last licence was granted
A renewal application must include updated applicant and premises information, and details of any changes to the business operations, conditions, or layout since the previous licence was issued.
Question 7: Under NZ law, can a licensed premises advertise alcohol prices at the entrance to attract passing trade?
- No — all exterior alcohol price advertising is prohibited under the Act
- Yes — price advertising at the entrance is unrestricted
- Only if prices are not discounted below the standard retail price for the area
- Only if the advertising does not amount to an irresponsible promotion — e.g. extreme discounts or 'drink all you can' promotions are prohibited (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Only if the advertising does not amount to an irresponsible promotion — e.g. extreme discounts or 'drink all you can' promotions are prohibited
Price advertising at the entrance is permitted as long as it does not amount to an irresponsible promotion — for example, advertising drinks at extreme discounts or framing the advertising in a way that encourages rapid or excessive consumption.
Question 8: What are 'controlled purchase operations' (CPOs) in the NZ alcohol enforcement context?
- Operations to control the price of alcohol in certain areas
- Operations where police purchase alcohol to test for contamination
- Secret shopping exercises to test customer service quality
- Supervised operations where a person aged 15-17 attempts to purchase alcohol to test compliance with age verification laws (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Supervised operations where a person aged 15-17 attempts to purchase alcohol to test compliance with age verification laws
Controlled purchase operations involve supervised volunteers aged 15-17 attempting to buy alcohol from licensed premises to test whether staff are complying with age verification requirements. They are conducted under police or licensing inspector supervision.
Question 9: What is the penalty for the licensee if a controlled purchase operation results in a sale to a minor in NZ?
- No penalty — CPOs are only for educational purposes
- The licence can be suspended, conditions varied, or the licence cancelled; the person who made the sale can be fined up to $10,000 (Correct answer)
- A warning letter is issued on the first occasion only
- The police officer supervising the CPO is disciplined instead
Correct answer: The licence can be suspended, conditions varied, or the licence cancelled; the person who made the sale can be fined up to $10,000
If a CPO results in a sale to a minor, the person who made the sale faces a fine of up to $10,000, and the licensing authority can take action against the licence including suspension, adding conditions, or cancellation.
Question 10: When applying for a licence renewal in NZ, how far in advance should the application be lodged?
- At least 20 working days before the current licence expires (Correct answer)
- At least 6 months before expiry
- On the day the licence expires
- No advance application is needed — licences renew automatically
Correct answer: At least 20 working days before the current licence expires
Licence renewal applications should be lodged at least 20 working days before the current licence expires. If lodged on time, the existing licence continues in force until the renewal application is determined.
Question 11: What is a 'supervised area' designation on NZ licensed premises?
- An area where alcohol-free events are held
- An area where minors may enter only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (Correct answer)
- An area with CCTV cameras monitoring patron behaviour
- An area where only the duty manager can serve alcohol
Correct answer: An area where minors may enter only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
A supervised area is a designated area of licensed premises where minors (under 18) may be present but only if accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Unaccompanied minors are not permitted in supervised areas.
Question 12: Under NZ law, what is the significance of the 'duty manager on duty' register that many licensed premises maintain?
- It is a legal requirement under the Act and must be presented to inspectors on request
- It is only required for premises with more than 200 patrons
- It replaces the need to notify the DLC of duty manager appointments
- It is a best practice record showing who was the certified duty manager at any given time, providing evidence of compliance (Correct answer)
Correct answer: It is a best practice record showing who was the certified duty manager at any given time, providing evidence of compliance
While the Act does not specifically mandate a duty manager register, maintaining one is best practice and provides evidence that a certified manager was on duty at all times, which is critical during compliance investigations.
Question 13: Under NZ law, what responsibilities does a duty manager at a special licence event have regarding the consumption of alcohol outside the designated licensed area?
- Once purchased, patrons may take drinks anywhere they choose
- Patrons may take drinks anywhere within the event site even if not all areas are covered by the licence
- Only security staff are responsible for controlling drink zones at events
- The duty manager must ensure alcohol is consumed only within the licensed area and prevent patrons from taking drinks outside it (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The duty manager must ensure alcohol is consumed only within the licensed area and prevent patrons from taking drinks outside it
The special licence specifies the area where alcohol may be sold and consumed. The duty manager must ensure patrons do not take drinks outside the licensed area, which could constitute an unlicensed supply.
Question 14: What is the NZ standard for closing procedures that a duty manager should follow?
- Lock the doors at closing time with patrons still inside
- Closing procedures are only needed for nightclubs, not bars or restaurants
- Continue serving as long as patrons are willing to pay
- Stop serving at closing time, give patrons a reasonable time to finish drinks and leave, ensure the premises is empty, secure the premises, and complete the closing checklist (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Stop serving at closing time, give patrons a reasonable time to finish drinks and leave, ensure the premises is empty, secure the premises, and complete the closing checklist
NZ closing procedures include: ceasing service at the time specified on the licence, giving patrons a reasonable period to finish drinks and leave (typically 15-30 minutes), clearing the premises, ensuring patron safety as they leave, securing the premises, and completing any required documentation.
Question 15: What is the NZ legal position on providing free water to patrons on on-licensed premises?
- It is recommended but not legally required
- Water is only required in venues with a capacity over 100 persons
- Water must be provided only if requested by an intoxicated patron
- On-licensed premises must make potable water available free of charge at all times (Correct answer)
Correct answer: On-licensed premises must make potable water available free of charge at all times
The Act requires that potable (drinkable) water be made available free of charge at all times on on-licensed premises as a harm minimisation measure.
Question 16: What is the legal requirement in NZ regarding the display of a duty manager's name on licensed premises?
- The duty manager's name must be available on request but does not need to be publicly displayed
- The duty manager must wear a clearly visible name badge at all times
- The licence must be displayed but there is no requirement to display the duty manager's name (Correct answer)
- The duty manager's full name must be displayed on a public noticeboard at the entrance
Correct answer: The licence must be displayed but there is no requirement to display the duty manager's name
Under the Act, the licence must be displayed in a prominent place, but there is no specific requirement to display the duty manager's name publicly, although good practice and some DLC conditions may require it.
Question 17: Under NZ law, what is the maximum fee band for a special licence application in the risk-based fee system?
- Special licences always cost less than permanent licence renewals
- All special licences are charged the same flat fee
- Special licences are placed in fee bands based on the scale and risk profile of the event (Correct answer)
- Special licences are free for registered charities
Correct answer: Special licences are placed in fee bands based on the scale and risk profile of the event
Like permanent licences, special licences are assessed under the risk-based fee system. A high-risk large public event attracts a higher application fee than a small low-risk community function.
Question 18: Under NZ law, what is the key principle behind 'responsible promotion of alcohol' on licensed premises?
- Promotions must not encourage rapid, excessive, or irresponsible consumption of alcohol (Correct answer)
- Alcohol promotions may only be advertised to persons over 25
- Promotions must be approved by the DLC at least 14 days in advance
- All alcohol advertising must use black and white imagery only
Correct answer: Promotions must not encourage rapid, excessive, or irresponsible consumption of alcohol
The Act prohibits promotions that encourage rapid or excessive drinking, such as 'drink all you can' deals, irresponsible happy hours, or competitions involving consuming large amounts of alcohol quickly.
Question 19: Under NZ host responsibility requirements, what information about transport should be made available to patrons at licensed premises?
- A list of local taxi and rideshare services should be visibly available to help patrons plan safe transport home (Correct answer)
- Venues are required to operate a free shuttle service
- Only Police-approved transport options may be listed
- Transport information is only required after midnight
Correct answer: A list of local taxi and rideshare services should be visibly available to help patrons plan safe transport home
Host responsibility best practice and some DLC conditions require that information about safe transport options — including local taxi, rideshare, and bus services — is available and visible to patrons.
Question 20: Under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, what must happen to a manager's certificate if the holder is convicted of a relevant offence?
- Nothing — convictions only affect new applications, not existing certificates
- The holder must voluntarily surrender the certificate
- The certificate automatically lapses on conviction
- The DLC or ARLA may review the certificate and cancel or suspend it based on the conviction (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The DLC or ARLA may review the certificate and cancel or suspend it based on the conviction
A conviction for a relevant offence (such as a violence, dishonesty, or alcohol offence) does not automatically cancel a certificate, but the DLC or ARLA may review and cancel or suspend it.
Question 21: Under the Act, what is a 'compliance order' and who can issue one in NZ?
- A court order banning a person from all licensed premises nationwide
- An order requiring a licensee to comply with specific conditions of their licence, issued by a licensing inspector or the DLC (Correct answer)
- An order from the police to close a premises immediately
- A financial penalty issued by the IRD for unpaid alcohol tax
Correct answer: An order requiring a licensee to comply with specific conditions of their licence, issued by a licensing inspector or the DLC
A compliance order requires a licensee to take specific actions to comply with their licence conditions or the Act. It can be issued by a licensing inspector or the DLC and must be complied with within the specified timeframe.
Question 22: Under NZ harm minimisation principles, when should a duty manager intervene with a patron who has been drinking steadily but does not yet appear obviously intoxicated?
- Never — intervention is only legally required once intoxication is visible
- Proactively, by monitoring consumption patterns and offering water or food before intoxication occurs (Correct answer)
- Only when another patron complains about them
- Only when the patron requests to be cut off
Correct answer: Proactively, by monitoring consumption patterns and offering water or food before intoxication occurs
Harm minimisation requires proactive intervention — monitoring drinking rates, offering food and water, and engaging patrons — before intoxication occurs, not only after it is visible.
Question 23: What is the NZ duty manager's responsibility regarding pre-loading (drinking before arriving at the venue)?
- Pre-loading is not the venue's concern
- Assess each person's state at the door — refuse entry if they appear intoxicated, regardless of whether they consumed alcohol before arrival (Correct answer)
- Allow entry but serve only non-alcoholic drinks
- Only check for pre-loading after midnight
Correct answer: Assess each person's state at the door — refuse entry if they appear intoxicated, regardless of whether they consumed alcohol before arrival
NZ duty managers must assess each person's state at entry. If a patron shows signs of intoxication from pre-loading (drinking before arrival), they should be refused entry. The duty manager's obligation is to prevent intoxicated persons from being on the premises, regardless of where they became intoxicated.
Question 24: Under NZ law, what is the duty manager's obligation when a patron presents a suspicious or potentially fake proof-of-age document?
- Take a photocopy of the document and serve the patron
- Call Police immediately in every case
- Accept it if the photo looks similar to the patron
- Refuse to accept it and decline to serve alcohol to that person (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Refuse to accept it and decline to serve alcohol to that person
If a duty manager or staff member is not satisfied that a proof-of-age document is genuine, they must refuse to accept it and decline to serve alcohol to the person.
Question 25: What standard drink measures should a NZ duty manager be aware of?
- One standard drink = 500ml of any alcoholic beverage
- There is no official standard drink measure in NZ
- One standard drink = any single glass of any alcoholic beverage
- One standard drink = 10 grams of pure alcohol (e.g., 330ml beer at 4%, 100ml wine at 13%, 30ml spirits at 40%) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: One standard drink = 10 grams of pure alcohol (e.g., 330ml beer at 4%, 100ml wine at 13%, 30ml spirits at 40%)
In New Zealand, one standard drink contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. Examples include approximately 330ml of 4% beer, 100ml of 13% wine, or 30ml of 40% spirits. Duty managers must understand these measures for responsible service.
Question 26: What are the specific conditions that typically attach to a club licence in NZ?
- A club licence allows sale to anyone who walks through the door
- Club licences have no specific conditions beyond standard on-licence rules
- Only beer and wine can be served under a club licence
- Alcohol can only be supplied to authorised members, their guests, and at club events — not sold to the general public (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Alcohol can only be supplied to authorised members, their guests, and at club events — not sold to the general public
A club licence authorises the supply of alcohol to club members and their guests, and at events held by the club. It cannot be used to sell alcohol to the general public. Members must be bona fide members of the club.
Question 27: What is the 'compulsory alcohol sensitivity training' element of the LCQ in New Zealand?
- Training only required for managers who have alcohol problems
- A medical examination to test personal alcohol tolerance
- Training that ensures managers understand the effects of alcohol, signs of intoxication, and strategies for managing intoxicated persons (Correct answer)
- Training on how to make cocktails with less alcohol
Correct answer: Training that ensures managers understand the effects of alcohol, signs of intoxication, and strategies for managing intoxicated persons
The LCQ includes compulsory training on alcohol sensitivity, covering the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol, how to recognise intoxication, and practical strategies for managing intoxicated patrons safely.
Question 28: In NZ, what is the duty manager's obligation regarding patrons who are members of a gang wearing gang patches on the premises?
- Only the Police may remove patrons wearing gang patches
- Gang patches are permitted on all licensed premises under freedom of expression principles
- Duty managers must always refuse entry to gang members under the Act
- Duty managers may enforce a no-gang-patch policy if this is a condition of the licence or a house rule, and must enforce it consistently (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Duty managers may enforce a no-gang-patch policy if this is a condition of the licence or a house rule, and must enforce it consistently
Some licensed premises have a no-gang-patch policy as a house rule or licence condition. If such a policy exists, the duty manager must enforce it consistently. The Act itself does not specifically prohibit gang patches, but some local bylaws do.
Question 29: What is the significance of the defence that 'it appeared that the person was of or over the purchase age' under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012?
- It may be raised where reasonable steps were taken, but the court assesses whether those steps were genuinely adequate (Correct answer)
- It removes the requirement for staff to have formal age verification training
- It applies only to off-licence premises, not on-licence premises
- It fully absolves a licensee of all responsibility for an underage sale
Correct answer: It may be raised where reasonable steps were taken, but the court assesses whether those steps were genuinely adequate
This statutory defence may be available where reasonable steps were taken to verify age, but it does not guarantee acquittal — the court will examine whether the steps taken were truly reasonable in the circumstances.
Question 30: What is the 'host responsibility' concept under the NZ Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act?
- A voluntary programme with no legal backing
- The obligation of licensees and duty managers to promote responsible drinking, provide food and water, and manage intoxicated patrons (Correct answer)
- The duty to serve only premium quality alcohol products
- The requirement for hosts to provide accommodation for intoxicated guests
Correct answer: The obligation of licensees and duty managers to promote responsible drinking, provide food and water, and manage intoxicated patrons
Host responsibility is a core concept under the Act requiring licensees and duty managers to promote responsible consumption, provide alternatives (food, water, low-alcohol options), display host responsibility signage, and manage intoxicated persons.
Question 31: Under NZ law, can a duty manager refuse to allow a Police officer or Licensing Inspector to enter licensed premises?
- Yes, during private functions where all patrons are members
- No — Police and Licensing Inspectors have the right of entry to licensed premises at any reasonable time (Correct answer)
- Yes, after 30 minutes' notice if they do not have a warrant
- Only if the premises is not currently trading alcohol
Correct answer: No — Police and Licensing Inspectors have the right of entry to licensed premises at any reasonable time
Under the Act, Licensing Inspectors and Police have an absolute right of entry to licensed premises at any reasonable time to monitor compliance. A duty manager cannot refuse or obstruct this.
Question 32: Under NZ law, what is the legal position regarding consumption of alcohol purchased at an off-licence in a public place?
- The Act prohibits all off-licence alcohol consumption outside the purchaser's private property
- Consuming alcohol in public places may be an offence under local bylaws, regardless of where it was purchased — the off-licence has no control over this (Correct answer)
- Once purchased at an off-licence, alcohol may be consumed anywhere including public places
- The off-licence duty manager is responsible for ensuring purchasers do not drink in public
Correct answer: Consuming alcohol in public places may be an offence under local bylaws, regardless of where it was purchased — the off-licence has no control over this
Once alcohol is sold at an off-licence and taken away, consumption in public places is governed by local council bylaws prohibiting alcohol in public places. The off-licence itself has no control over where the patron consumes the product.
Question 33: In NZ, what is the maximum penalty for allowing an intoxicated person to remain on licensed premises?
- $10,000 fine for the licensee and $4,000 for the duty manager (Correct answer)
- A warning letter only
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Automatic cancellation of the licence
Correct answer: $10,000 fine for the licensee and $4,000 for the duty manager
Allowing an intoxicated person to remain on licensed premises can result in a fine of up to $10,000 for the licensee and up to $4,000 for the duty manager.
Question 34: What is the BYO (Bring Your Own) provision under NZ liquor licensing?
- Any restaurant can allow BYO without any licence endorsement
- A special endorsement on an on-licence allowing patrons to bring their own wine or beer for consumption with a meal (Correct answer)
- BYO applies only to club licences
- BYO is not permitted under NZ law
Correct answer: A special endorsement on an on-licence allowing patrons to bring their own wine or beer for consumption with a meal
A BYO endorsement can be added to an on-licence, allowing patrons to bring their own wine or beer for consumption with a meal on the premises. The endorsement must be applied for and approved by the DLC.
Question 35: What is the effect of a 'one-way door' condition on an NZ licensed premises?
- Only patrons who arrived before midnight may remain on the premises
- Patrons must enter and exit through the same door for security
- Patrons may enter the licensed area but once they leave they cannot re-enter during the restricted hours (Correct answer)
- Staff must remain on premises until the last patron leaves
Correct answer: Patrons may enter the licensed area but once they leave they cannot re-enter during the restricted hours
A one-way door condition means that once a patron leaves the licensed area after a specified time (e.g., 1 am), they cannot re-enter. This reduces patron movement and associated disorder in late-night venues.
Question 36: Under NZ law, what does the term 'irresponsible promotion' of alcohol refer to?
- Advertising alcohol near a school
- Offering a student discount on alcohol
- Any promotion that encourages, induces, or has the likely effect of encouraging excessive or rapid alcohol consumption (Correct answer)
- Advertising alcohol on television before 9 pm
Correct answer: Any promotion that encourages, induces, or has the likely effect of encouraging excessive or rapid alcohol consumption
An irresponsible promotion is one that encourages people to consume alcohol excessively or rapidly, such as 'drink all you can' events, competitions involving drinking speed, or extreme discount deals targeting rapid consumption.
Question 37: What is the concept of 'secondary harm' in the NZ alcohol harm minimisation framework?
- Financial harm to the licensee from refusing sales
- Harm caused to people other than the drinker — such as family members, road users, or bystanders (Correct answer)
- The hangover experienced by the drinker the next day
- Damage to the premises caused by intoxicated patrons
Correct answer: Harm caused to people other than the drinker — such as family members, road users, or bystanders
Secondary harm refers to harm experienced by people other than the drinker, such as victims of alcohol-fuelled violence, family members, and other road users.
Question 38: What is a 'courtesy service' refusal in NZ responsible service practice?
- Offering a reduced-price non-alcoholic alternative as a courtesy
- Refusing entry on courtesy grounds to those who appear overdressed for the venue
- Refusing to serve a patron based on their appearance or clothing
- Proactively declining to take a patron's next order even before they reach the point of intoxication, based on responsible service judgement (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Proactively declining to take a patron's next order even before they reach the point of intoxication, based on responsible service judgement
A courtesy refusal means declining to serve more alcohol to a patron proactively, before they become intoxicated, based on responsible service principles such as the amount they have already consumed or the time they have been drinking.
Question 39: What is the NZ legal position on serving alcohol to a person you believe is buying it for a minor?
- Only refuse if you can prove they are buying for a minor
- You should refuse the sale if you reasonably believe the alcohol will be supplied to a minor — this is part of preventing secondary supply (Correct answer)
- You can serve them as it is their responsibility what they do with it
- This situation is not addressed by NZ law
Correct answer: You should refuse the sale if you reasonably believe the alcohol will be supplied to a minor — this is part of preventing secondary supply
If a duty manager or staff member reasonably believes a person is purchasing alcohol to supply to a minor, they should refuse the sale. This supports the Act's provisions against secondary supply to minors.
Question 40: Under NZ responsible service principles, what does 'pacing' refer to in the context of serving alcohol?
- Walking around the premises at a steady pace to monitor patrons
- Deliberately slowing the rate at which alcohol is served to individual patrons (Correct answer)
- Matching food portions to alcohol portions
- Setting a timed schedule for last drinks announcements
Correct answer: Deliberately slowing the rate at which alcohol is served to individual patrons
Pacing means controlling the rate of alcohol service to individual patrons — for example, not serving a new drink until the previous one is mostly finished, and offering food and water in between.
Question 41: Under NZ law, can an off-licensed premises sell alcohol in the same area where children's food or confectionery is sold?
- Only if the alcohol section is behind a physical barrier
- Only if a parent is present
- The Act and DLC conditions may restrict alcohol display in areas frequented by children, and off-licences must not display alcohol alongside products that primarily appeal to children (Correct answer)
- Yes — there is no restriction on the placement of alcohol relative to other products
Correct answer: The Act and DLC conditions may restrict alcohol display in areas frequented by children, and off-licences must not display alcohol alongside products that primarily appeal to children
Responsible retailing principles and some DLC conditions restrict the placement of alcohol away from products that primarily appeal to children, as part of minimising exposure of young people to alcohol products.
Question 42: Under NZ law, what records must a licensed premises maintain and make available for inspection?
- No records are required as long as the licence is displayed
- Staff training records, incident register, duty manager roster, and complaints register (Correct answer)
- Only CCTV footage is required
- Only financial accounts and tax records
Correct answer: Staff training records, incident register, duty manager roster, and complaints register
Licensed premises must maintain and make available for inspection: staff training records (including responsible service of alcohol), an incident register, a duty manager roster showing who was on duty and when, and records of any complaints.
Question 43: Under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, what is the minimum age for a person to hold a manager's certificate in NZ?
- 20 years
- 18 years (Correct answer)
- 21 years
- 16 years
Correct answer: 18 years
A person must be at least 18 years old to apply for and hold a manager's certificate in New Zealand.
Question 44: Under NZ law, what are the key signs of intoxication that a duty manager should monitor?
- Red face and talking loudly are the only legal signs
- Only unconsciousness counts as intoxication under the Act
- Slurred speech, unsteady on feet, aggressive behaviour, loss of coordination, and difficulty focusing (Correct answer)
- Intoxication can only be determined by a breathalyser test
Correct answer: Slurred speech, unsteady on feet, aggressive behaviour, loss of coordination, and difficulty focusing
Signs of intoxication include slurred speech, being unsteady on feet, aggressive or inappropriate behaviour, loss of coordination, difficulty focusing eyes, and overly loud or boisterous conduct. Duty managers must recognise these signs early.
Question 45: Under NZ law, what is the legal effect of a 'host responsibility policy' formally adopted by a licensed premises?
- Policies must be approved by the DLC to be legally effective
- A formal host responsibility policy is a legal document that replaces the Act's requirements for that premises
- A host responsibility policy has no legal standing under NZ law
- A formal policy demonstrates the licensee's commitment to responsible service and can be used as evidence of good faith in any DLC hearing or compliance investigation (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A formal policy demonstrates the licensee's commitment to responsible service and can be used as evidence of good faith in any DLC hearing or compliance investigation
While a host responsibility policy is not itself a legal requirement, having a formal written policy demonstrates the licensee's commitment to responsible service. In any compliance investigation or licence renewal, it can be presented as evidence of a proactive approach to harm minimisation.
Question 46: Under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, which licence type allows alcohol to be consumed in a vehicle that is a conveyance (e.g., a train or ferry) in NZ?
- Conveyance licence (Correct answer)
- On-licence
- Off-licence
- Club licence
Correct answer: Conveyance licence
A conveyance licence authorises the sale and supply of alcohol on a vehicle used for public transport, such as a ferry, train, or aircraft, for consumption on board.
Question 47: In NZ, what must a duty manager do if a patron becomes violent or threatening on the licensed premises?
- Only contact Police — staff must not intervene in violent situations
- Immediately close the premises and ask all patrons to leave
- Remove alcohol service from the patron, attempt to de-escalate, remove the patron if safe to do so, and contact Police if necessary (Correct answer)
- Personally restrain the patron until Police arrive
Correct answer: Remove alcohol service from the patron, attempt to de-escalate, remove the patron if safe to do so, and contact Police if necessary
The duty manager must stop alcohol service to the person, attempt de-escalation, arrange for removal from the premises where safe, and contact Police if the situation warrants it.
Question 48: What is the 'good host' practice of providing low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options on NZ premises?
- Only required in restaurants, not bars
- A requirement under host responsibility to ensure a reasonable range of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages is available (Correct answer)
- Only required after midnight
- A suggestion that has no legal backing
Correct answer: A requirement under host responsibility to ensure a reasonable range of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages is available
Under host responsibility requirements, licensed premises must have a reasonable range of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages available for patrons. This is part of the harm minimisation approach and is a licence condition.
Question 49: Under NZ law, which body administers complaints about alcohol advertising on television and in print media?
- The New Zealand Police
- The Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA)
- The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) (Correct answer)
- The Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) for all media
Correct answer: The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)
Complaints about alcohol advertising in NZ media are primarily handled by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) under its Alcohol Advertising and Promotions Code.
Question 50: In NZ, can a special licence authorise the supply of alcohol free of charge to event attendees?
- Only if the event is a private function with no commercial element
- No — special licences only authorise the sale of alcohol, not free supply
- Yes — special licences can authorise both the sale and the supply (including free supply) of alcohol within the event (Correct answer)
- Only with ARLA's specific approval
Correct answer: Yes — special licences can authorise both the sale and the supply (including free supply) of alcohol within the event
Special licences can authorise both the sale and the free supply of alcohol at events. However, any supply — whether paid for or free — must occur within the authorised hours and comply with all licence conditions.
Question 51: What is required for a person to obtain a manager's certificate for the first time in NZ?
- Completion of the LCQ or equivalent, industry experience, and a fit and proper person assessment (Correct answer)
- At least 5 years of bar work experience
- Only a clear police record is required
- Approval from the current premises licensee only
Correct answer: Completion of the LCQ or equivalent, industry experience, and a fit and proper person assessment
To obtain a manager's certificate, an applicant must have completed the LCQ or equivalent qualification, have relevant industry experience, be a fit and proper person, and be at least 18 years old.
Question 52: In NZ, what is the duty manager's role when a patron becomes unwell (not from intoxication) on the premises?
- The duty manager has no responsibility for patron health
- Tell the patron to leave and seek medical help elsewhere
- Provide appropriate assistance, call for medical help if needed (111), and ensure the patron is safe — the duty of care extends to all aspects of patron wellbeing (Correct answer)
- Only assist if the illness is alcohol-related
Correct answer: Provide appropriate assistance, call for medical help if needed (111), and ensure the patron is safe — the duty of care extends to all aspects of patron wellbeing
The duty manager's duty of care extends to all aspects of patron wellbeing on the premises. If a patron becomes unwell, the duty manager should provide appropriate assistance, call for medical help if needed, ensure the patron is in a safe position, and monitor their condition.
Question 53: In NZ, what does the Alcohol Advertising and Promotions Code prohibit regarding alcohol advertising and sporting events?
- Alcohol cannot be advertised during any live sport broadcast
- All alcohol sponsorship of sporting events is prohibited
- Alcohol sponsors must donate 10% of their sponsorship to harm reduction organisations
- Alcohol advertising linked to sporting events must not link alcohol consumption with improved sporting performance or use current prominent sporting personalities in ways that appeal to youth (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Alcohol advertising linked to sporting events must not link alcohol consumption with improved sporting performance or use current prominent sporting personalities in ways that appeal to youth
The Code prohibits alcohol advertising that links consumption with improved sporting performance, or that uses sporting personalities in ways that primarily appeal to young people or suggest alcohol improves performance.
Question 54: Under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, what responsibility does the duty manager have regarding the storage of alcohol on the premises?
- The duty manager must ensure alcohol is not accessible to patrons or staff outside licensed trading hours (Correct answer)
- The duty manager must personally lock all alcohol storage at closing time
- Alcohol storage is the sole responsibility of the licensee, not the duty manager
- Alcohol must be stored in a locked room approved by the DLC
Correct answer: The duty manager must ensure alcohol is not accessible to patrons or staff outside licensed trading hours
The duty manager is responsible for ensuring that alcohol cannot be sold, supplied, or accessed outside of licensed trading hours. This includes ensuring storage is secured after trading hours.
Question 55: What does a 'closure order' under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 allow Police to do in NZ?
- Permanently revoke a licence without a hearing
- Close licensed premises for up to 24 hours where disorder is occurring or imminent (Correct answer)
- Remove the duty manager's certificate immediately
- Fine the licensee on the spot up to $5,000
Correct answer: Close licensed premises for up to 24 hours where disorder is occurring or imminent
Police can issue a closure order to close premises for up to 24 hours when there is disorder on or near the premises or when there is a serious risk of disorder.
Question 56: What training requirement exists for duty managers regarding the LCQ in New Zealand?
- Training is recommended but not legally mandatory
- No formal qualification is required — only on-the-job experience
- They must complete a university degree in hospitality
- They must pass the Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) before applying for a manager's certificate (Correct answer)
Correct answer: They must pass the Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) before applying for a manager's certificate
Since 18 December 2013, anyone applying for a new manager's certificate must hold the Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ). This involves completing an approved training course and passing an assessment.
Question 57: What is a Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) under the NZ Act?
- A national policy set by Parliament affecting all of New Zealand
- A voluntary code of conduct between bar owners
- A policy adopted by a territorial authority setting local rules on licence types, trading hours, and location of premises (Correct answer)
- A police-enforced curfew in specific areas
Correct answer: A policy adopted by a territorial authority setting local rules on licence types, trading hours, and location of premises
A Local Alcohol Policy is adopted by a territorial authority (city or district council) and can set local rules on matters such as licence types, trading hours, one-way door restrictions, and the location of licensed premises within their area.
Question 58: What must a duty manager in NZ do if they are going to be absent from the premises for more than a brief period?
- Ensure another certified duty manager takes over responsibility (Correct answer)
- Lock the premises until they return
- Notify Police before leaving
- Ask a senior staff member to cover without a certificate
Correct answer: Ensure another certified duty manager takes over responsibility
At all times when alcohol is sold or supplied, a certified duty manager must be present and responsible. If the duty manager needs to be absent for more than a brief period, another certified manager must take over.
Question 59: What is a 'restricted area' on NZ licensed premises?
- An area where spirits cannot be served
- An area where no person under 18 may enter at any time, regardless of who accompanies them (Correct answer)
- An area restricted to staff only
- An area restricted to VIP customers only
Correct answer: An area where no person under 18 may enter at any time, regardless of who accompanies them
A restricted area is a designated part of licensed premises where no person under 18 may be present at any time, even if accompanied by a parent or guardian. This is a stricter designation than a supervised area.
Question 60: What does 'harm minimisation' mean in the context of the NZ Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act?
- Reducing the profit margin on alcohol sales
- Reducing the negative effects of alcohol on individuals, families, and communities through responsible sale and supply practices (Correct answer)
- Banning alcohol advertising on television
- Minimising the amount of alcohol available in New Zealand
Correct answer: Reducing the negative effects of alcohol on individuals, families, and communities through responsible sale and supply practices
Harm minimisation in the context of the Act means implementing practices that reduce the negative effects of alcohol consumption on individuals, families/whanau, and communities, including responsible service, intoxication management, and community safety.
LCQ Licence Controller Qualification Exam
The New Zealand Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) Exam tests knowledge required for duty managers under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, covering host responsibility, licence types, intoxication management, compliance, enforcement powers, and responsible service practices.
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds