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The aim of this study was to assess trends in drinking patterns and alcohol-related problems among age and gender groups in the context of a liberalized alcohol policy environment.

Eleven comparable general population alcohol surveys were conducted between 1990 and 2000 in Auckland, New Zealand, during which a substantial number of liberalizing alcohol policy changes occurred. Measurements included typical-occasion quantity and frequency of drinking in the last 12 months. Self-reported alcohol-related problems in the last 12 months were divided into two groups based on risk curve analysis: threshold problems (experienced only once a high level of consumption is reached) and nonthreshold problems (those exhibiting a dose-response relationship). Age groups were 14–19, 20–24, 25–39, and 40–65 years.

Significant increases in typical-occasion quantity were found for young …