At least two Wellington hospitality businesses face an uncertain future as Inland Revenue pursues their high-profile owner for alleged unpaid taxes

The department's applied to the High Court to liquidate four companies owned by Nick Mills - a long-time hospitality business owner, who also hosts a show on Newstalk ZB.

One of the companies trades under the name Los Banditos - a Mexican restaurant - and another under the name Wellington Sports Café.

Nick Mills says he's been negotiating with the tax department for eight months to settle 'historic issues' and has raised more than 40-percent of the outstanding debt.

He says they continue to meet current tax obligations.

A judge will decide whether the companies should be liquidated following a hearing scheduled for next Tuesday .