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Ministry of Education New Zealand
Important

New version effective 20 April 2026

This is the new version of the licensing criterion and associated guidance.

Criterion HS224#

Coordinators and educators must not use, or be under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour while responsible for children attending the service.

Guidance#

How to show you are complying #

You must make sure that educators and any person responsible (visiting teachers or coordinators) are never under the influence of alcohol or any other substance while children are present. 

Implementing a range of measures to make sure no-one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance can be helpful, including:

  • code of conduct – that outlines your expectations for substance-free behaviour from staff, volunteers, parents, and visitors
  • policy – that sets out the rules and consequences regarding alcohol and substance use
  • signage – displaying clear reminders in relevant areas to reinforce expectations.