How Much is Alcohol in New Zealand?
New Zealand has a reputation for having some of the most liberal attitudes towards alcohol consumption in the world. As a society we have embraced the notion that moderate drinking of alcohol is safe. This has resulted in a culture where access to alcohol, especially in places like bars and pubs, is often taken for granted. This article explores the extent of alcohol consumption in New Zealand, the availability of alcohol, relevant statistics, and the health and social impacts of excessive drinking.
The Extent of Alcohol Consumption in New Zealand
Recent statistics on alcohol consumption in New Zealand paint a concerning picture. In 2017, New Zealanders consumed the second highest amount of alcohol per capita, after Lithuania and ahead of Austria and the Czech Republic. Research published by the Ministry of Health in 2018 showed that alcohol-related hospitalisations increased by 8.2% in the preceding four years, and deaths due to alcohol-related causes also increased from 6.4% to 7.2%.
These figures suggest that New Zealanders are drinking too much alcohol, far beyond accepted guidelines on safe drinking. The guidelines recommend no more than two standard drinks per day and no more than four standard drinks on any one occasion. It’s clear that these guidelines are not being followed, as alcohol consumption in New Zealand continues to increase.
Availability of Alcohol
The availability of alcohol in New Zealand is much higher than in other countries. The Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority Act of 2012 made it easier for bars, pubs and liquor outlets to obtain a licence, meaning that alcohol is grown easily accessible to those who choose to drink. This has no doubt led to an increase in alcohol consumption.
There is also an increase in alcohol-related advertising in New Zealand. Advertising has been proven to shape perceptions of products and influence attitudes towards them, so it’s not hard to imagine how this could be contributing to alcohol consumption in New Zealand.
Health and Social Impacts of Excessive Drinking
It’s important to note that the health and social impacts of excessive drinking in New Zealand are significant. Alcohol can cause serious damage to the liver and other organs, and those who drink excessively are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.
Excessive drinking can also lead to increased risk-taking behaviour, including promiscuous sexual behaviour, intoxication-related driving, and violence or vandalism. These behaviours can undoubtedly have a negative impact on individuals, relationships, and society as a whole.
Government Policies on Alcohol
In an effort to reduce alcohol consumption in New Zealand, the government has implemented a number of policies. This includes restrictions on the sale of alcohol, minimum pricing, and limits on advertising and promotions.
More recently, the government has proposed new policies that would reduce the availability of alcohol, including reducing the number of outlets allowed to sell alcohol and increasing the minimum age to purchase alcohol from 18 to 20. These measures are hoped to reduce alcohol consumption and lead to reductions in alcohol-related harm.
Speaking Out Against Excessive Drinking
Excessive drinking has a huge impact on the health and social lives of those individuals involved, but it can also have a negative impact on their family, friends, and colleagues. It’s important for those affected by alcohol misuse to speak out about it, and to support those who need help in seeking treatment.
Organisations such as Alcohol Healthwatch, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, and Women’s Refuge, provide excellent information and practical support to individuals and families affected by alcohol misuse. It’s vital that individuals and communities are aware of the support available.
Alcohol Education and Awareness
It’s also important to recognise the need for alcohol education and awareness in New Zealand. Research shows that individuals are more likely to drink responsibly when they are aware of the potential harms of excessive drinking. Teaching children about the risks of alcohol is key to reducing excessive drinking in the future.
Schools, universities, and health organisations all have a role to play in educating the public about alcohol misuse and the importance of drinking responsibly. These messages need to be communicated in a clear and engaging way to ensure they are heard and understood.
Taxes and Charges
Increasing taxes on alcohol is another way to reduce excessive drinking. Studies have shown that increasing the price of alcohol can have a positive effect on reducing alcohol consumption.
A recent report by the World Health Organisation found that countries with higher taxes on alcohol tend to have lower levels of alcohol consumption. This suggests that this could be an effective way to reduce excessive drinking in New Zealand.
Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places
Restrictions on the consumption of alcohol in public places can also have a positive impact on reducing excessive drinking. These restrictions can, for example, include banning the sale or consumption of alcohol in certain areas, such as parks or beaches.
Such restrictions can also reduce the risks associated with public drunkenness, which can lead to violence or other risky behaviour. It’s important to ensure that people have access to safe spaces where they can drink responsibly.
Conclusion
Alcohol consumption in New Zealand is still very high and is proving to be a major problem in terms of its health and social impacts. It’s clear that there needs to be further action taken to reduce excessive drinking in New Zealand.
Government, health and social organisations need to raise awareness of the risks associated with alcohol misuse, and put in place measures that will reduce its availability and encourage people to drink responsibly. Only then will we start to see a reduction in the negative impacts of alcohol misuse in New Zealand.
