Some council services will be unavailable over the Christmas and New Year break.
Check if you need to apply or order before Friday 19 December 2025.
You need to pay a fee if you are serving kai at an event held at a community venue.
Te tuku kai me te waipiro i tētahi wāhi hapori Providing food and alcohol at a community venue
Serving food at a community venue
The special function fee
The special function service fee includes:
- a staff inspection of your booked venue to make sure it's ready
- 24/7 emergency support for the entire duration of your event
- advice and support from staff to ensure you have a successful event.
The special function fee also provides extra security when you serve alcohol with kai.
Our staff will provide:
- an introduction to the venue before your event
- tips on how to be a responsible host
- security staff to keep the facility secure.
For more details about the special function service fee, contact us.
Serving alcohol at a community venue
Our community venues are not licensed premises.
If you intend to serve alcohol, you will need to make a booking 20 working days before your event.
Serving or providing alcohol to minors is not permitted at our venues.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages (including free water) must always be provided if you are serving alcohol.
Check our Community venues terms and conditions for serving alcohol.
When you need an alcohol licence
You must apply for an alcohol special licence if you are:
- selling alcohol at your event
- opening your event to the public.
You have to apply at least 20 working days before your event.
You don't need an alcohol licence for a private gathering at a community venue.