Story perspectives

ILT Licensing Debate: Balancing Community Profits and Competition

2/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Invercargill Licensing Trust (ILT) operates hospitality businesses and holds exclusive rights to standalone off-licences under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.
Athena Tane says the licensing framework is manageable.
Nicola McGilvray says obtaining new licences is challenging.
Chris Ramsay, ILT's chief executive, denies interference in licensing decisions.
Some operators say it limits competition and innovation in the local market, despite the trust distributing millions in profits to the community.

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Story summary

Invercargill Licensing Trust (ILT) operates hospitality businesses and holds exclusive rights to standalone off-licences under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.
Athena Tane says the licensing framework is manageable.
Nicola McGilvray says obtaining new licences is challenging.
Chris Ramsay, ILT's chief executive, denies interference in licensing decisions.
Some operators say it limits competition and innovation in the local market, despite the trust distributing millions in profits to the community.