The New Zealand government was targeting young drinkers and their parents in proposed liquor law changes announced on Monday.

Adults who supply alcohol to young people without the permission of their parents could face a fine of up to 2000 NZ dollars (1400 U.S. dollars) under proposed changes to liquor laws.

Under the current law, it is legal for someone to supply alcohol to people under 18 years old at a private social gathering without their parents' permission.

The law changes announced by the New Zealand government on Monday include a recommendation for a split purchase age of 18 in bars, clubs and restaurants, and 20 in off-licences including supermarkets.

It would be illegal to give alcohol to someone under the age of 18 without the consent of their parent or guardian and any conviction would be entered on a person's criminal record.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key told a press conference on Monday that the government has responded to the public's concern about New Zealand's drinking culture.

Key said the government has to strike a balance between addressing the harm caused by alcohol and not unduly affecting responsible drinkers.

"We cannot legislate away New Zealand's binge-drinking culture - that is not possible. The only way that can change in New Zealand is if all of us want to apply a higher standard and understand that we need to make a cultural change," he said.

"And that means parents actually demonstrating that guardians will take responsibility as good hosts when someone comes around to their house," he aded.