Police did not oppose a liquor licence application in a small Southland town despite opponents lining up to highlight youth drinking issues. Furthermore, documents obtained from a 2016 application show alcohol misuse in the town dates back to the early 2000s when drunk youths burned down a classroom at Aparima College. Last month, a proposed new bottle store, Riverton Beer Wine and Spirits, failed to survive a hearing process after concerned residents came out in force. The decision has been appealed by the applicant, Otautau Hotel.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/126521552/police-gave-green-light-for-new-liquor-licence-despite-issues-dating-back-decades

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