What’s in a drink?

In New Zealand, the Standard Drinks measure is a simple way to work out how much alcohol you are drinking. It measures the amount of pure alcohol in a drink. One Standard Drink equals 10 grams of pure alcohol. All bottles of wine, beer, spirits and RTDs, and all cans and casks, now show the standard drinks content on the label. This helps you easily keep track of how much you are drinking.

The Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand (ALAC) has developed a set of guidelines for low-risk drinking that advises men drink no more (and preferably less) than six standard drinks in any one session or no more than 21 standard drinks in a week, and women no more (and preferably less) than four standard drinks in any one session or no more than 14 standard drinks in a week.

As well as limiting the amount of alcohol you drink, it is also important to eat some food when you are drinking, aim to have at least two alcohol-free days a week and avoid binge drinking (drinking excessively on any one occasion).

Consistently drinking to excess isn't advisable because of the progressive health risks it carries. After an episode of heavy drinking it is advisable to refrain from drinking for 48 hours. And of course, in some situations - like pregnancy - it's better to avoid drinking alcohol altogether.

If you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking, you can call this free helpline, in complete confidence. They can put you in touch with your local alcohol and drug service, provide information, self-help material and advice.

Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797 (lines are open from 10am to 10pm, 7 days a week).

Do you know how much you’re drinking? Click here and play to learn!