Can I drive after one drink in New Zealand?
Police advice is: if you have had any alcohol, don't drive. Drivers under 20 have a zero limit. Drivers aged 20 and over must not exceed 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, or 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. How much it takes to reach the limit is different for each person. Plan a taxi, rideshare, public transport or a sober driver.
Official figures
- Legal age to buy alcohol
- 181
- Approved evidence of age documents
- A current passport (from any country), a current New Zealand driver licence, an age card issued by Hospitality New Zealand with your photo and date of birth, or an accredited digital identity credential. Expired documents are not accepted.2
- Buying alcohol while under 18, or showing a false ID
- NZ$250 fine for each (infringement fee)1
- Drinking in a public place while under 18 without a parent or guardian
- NZ$200 fine1
- Breaking a local alcohol ban (Local Alcohol Ban)
- NZ$250 fine1
Official sources
- Alcohol laws and penaltiesNew Zealand Police · police.govt.nz
- Sale and Supply of Alcohol Regulations 2013Parliamentary Counsel Office (legislation.govt.nz) · legislation.govt.nz
- Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012Parliamentary Counsel Office (legislation.govt.nz) · legislation.govt.nz
- Alcohol bans and alcohol ban mapsAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Buying and drinking alcohol in New Zealand →
People also ask
- What is the legal drinking age in New Zealand, and what ID do I need to buy alcohol?
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- I am over 18. Can I buy alcohol for a friend who is under 18?
- Can I drink beer in a park or on the beach in New Zealand?
- Why can't I buy whisky or vodka at the supermarket in NZ?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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