New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council | Sensible and Safe Drinking

About us

Over 3.6 million adult Kiwis drink responsibly as part of a balanced lifestyle (NZ Health survey December 2025).

Formed in 2018, the New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council (NZABC) is a pan-industry group that speaks for those Kiwis who support a fair and balanced approach to alcohol policy, laws and regulation.

More adults than ever are choosing to drink in moderation. Five out of six Kiwis drink responsibly (83.4%), however one in six (16.6%) drink hazardously and although this has declined by 22% since 2020 this is still too high.

When we compare our drinking with other countries in the OECD (2023) Kiwis are drinking less than the OECD average. This includes less than the US, UK, Australia, Germany, France and Ireland.

At NZABC, we believe partnership between Local and Central Government, communities, police, health and the beer, wine and spirits sectors, along with education, are important ways to continue to reduce alcohol harm.

Moderate drinking

Moderate drinking can be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle. Decades of research confirm a distinction between moderate and harmful drinking for most adults, moderate drinking sits within low risk levels. Some large population studies show moderate drinkers live as long as – or longer than – abstainers and heavy drinkers. Importantly, for some individuals, not drinking at all is the best choice. . .

Bringing people together supports community wellbeing. This includes hospitality venues that serve beer, wine and spirits or drinking at home with friends and family.

We are pleased to promote www.cheers.org.nz and other programs like alcoholandme.org.nz that assist you to make the safe and healthy choices with your drinking.

Making an
impact in our communities

Over 3.6 million adult Kiwis enjoy a drink moderately and responsibly

The NZ Health Survey (2025) says that 83.4% of NZ adults (more than five out of six of us) are drinking beer, wine and spirits responsibly.

The Stats NZ alcohol consumption per capita has declined by more than 30% from 1986 to 2025. (1986 12.191 litres; December 2025 7.562 litres)

Who we are

NZABC is an Incorporated Society with members including producers, retailers, beer, wine and spirits associations, hospitality NZ and Food & Grocery Council NZ. We comment publicly on matters relating to the beer, wine, spirits and beverages industry. We focus on supporting responsible alcohol consumption and wants to see a fair and balanced debate on alcohol regulation in New Zealand.

If you are an alcohol related industry group, you are welcome to apply for membership. New membership will be considered by the committee and members.