New premises
If you propose opening a food outlet, first check with the Council’s Environmental Health Officer, Vanessa Vermeulen (06 379 4043) to determine whether the proposed activity is permitted on the site in terms of the Council’s district plan. Also ensure that any building or plumbing works have appropriate building consents.
All food premises must comply with the Food Hygiene Regulations 1974 to ensure safe food production. The environmental health officer is able to assist you with any information requirements or undertake inspections at any stage of the development.
The basic requirements for compliance are:
* all food preparation and storage/display area surfaces must be continuously smooth, impervious to water, readily cleanable and light coloured
* floors must be coved to the walls and permanent fixtures
* lighting and ventilation must be adequate
* there must be hot and cold running water, and a hand wash basin must be convenient to the food preparation area but separate from other sinks
* provision of staff toilet and changing facilities
* active management of cleaning practices, personal hygiene policies, pest control, building maintenance and staff training
Registration is renewable each year from 30 September, or if the business changes hands.
Prior to opening the business, you will need to contact the environmental health officer for an inspection and apply for a Certificate of Registration.
You may not open until registration has been completed and the environmental health officer has approved opening of the premises.
Existing premises
Food premises must renew their registration annually. Renewal forms will be mailed to premises prior to the expiry date of 30 September each year.
To ensure that the premises are operating correctly, the premises will be inspected by the environmental health officer periodically throughout the year.
If you are buying existing premises, notification of the change of ownership must be submitted to Council within 14 days of the change.