What food licence do I need to open a restaurant in New Zealand?
You usually need to register your restaurant under the Food Act 2014. If you make food to be eaten straight away, you use a Food Control Plan. If you only reheat ready-made food, you use a National Programme. Registration does not approve your location, so check with your council first. You may also need an alcohol on-licence or an outdoor dining licence.
Official figures
- Who must register
- Anyone who makes, sells, transports or serves food commercially must register.1
- Who you register with
- You may register with your local council or with MPI. This depends on where you operate and which type of plan you need.1
- Restaurants, cafés and takeaways
- If you make food to be eaten straight away, use a Food Control Plan. If you only reheat ready-made food (for example, bought pies or wedges), use a National Programme.2
- National Programme levels
- There are 3 levels based on food safety risk: Level 1 is lower risk, Level 2 is medium risk and Level 3 is higher risk.2
- First check for a new business
- Usually within six weeks after your registration is approved.5
Official sources
- Apply for food registrationAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Food control plans and national programmesAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Running a home-based businessAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Markets, food stalls and fundraisingAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Registering a food business →
People also ask
- What is the difference between a Food Control Plan and a National Programme, and which one do I need?
- Do I need to register to sell food I cook at home, like samosas or cakes?
- Do I register my café or bakery with the council or with MPI?
- How soon after registering will my food business be checked, and what do they check?
- Do I need to register to sell food at a weekend market?
- Does a school or charity fundraiser selling food need to register?
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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