Proctor Cracks Down on Alcoholic Flat Party Sponsors

Proctor Cracks Down on Alcoholic Flat Party Sponsors

Flats pissed without flat piss

Some alcohol companies who have been unofficial sponsors of student flat parties have not been fined, but appear to have received a very stern talking to by the Proctor and the Police.

According to the Proctor’s disciplinary report for 2021, some “alcohol manufacturers were unofficially sponsoring student parties,” providing flats with free 24-pack slabs, sound equipment and DJs. In return, flats were asked to promote those brands, posting pictures of the parties with drinks and branded signage.  

When asked about the situation, Proctor Dave Scott refused to name-and-shame the brand involved. He told Critic Te Arohi that “the Proctor’s Office worked closely with Police in relation to this situation.” He was unsure as to whether the practice was actually illegal, saying that this was a matter for the Police, but said that his main priority was to work to “help prevent alcohol harm”. 

One student, David, did not feel the crackdown would make much difference. “Obviously to get free drinks for something like putting a sign in your window is ideal,” he said. “I’ll still be buying drinks anyway so it doesn’t really cause more harm if they’re free.” 

The Proctor said that the students were not punished, as this did not constitute a breach of the Code of Student Conduct. He further explained that no punishments were given because, in this instance, “the companies involved should have been acting more responsibly.”

Police Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond told the Otago Daily Times that this was a breach of Section 237 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, which deals with the “irresponsible promotion of alcohol”. While breaking the law could lead to a $10,000 fine, Scott said: “To my knowledge the alcohol manufacturers were not fined. However, they have agreed not to repeat their behaviour.” He added that “this will be actively monitored.” So if you see a middle-aged man in a trenchcoat and sunglasses at your party saying, “Eyyo fellow scarfies, where’s the free booze at?”, it might be a trap. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. 

This article first appeared in Issue 1, 2022.
Posted 2:41pm Sunday 27th February 2022 by Sean Gourley.