Friday, 19 September 2014 - 9:57am |
Northland

Police prevent possible disorder after large party cancelled

1 min read

A party being planned at Whangarei address and had the potential to get out of control has been cancelled following an approach to organisers by Police.

Police were advised that an 18-year-old Whangarei man was attempting to arrange a large scale party via Facebook. The party, planned for this Saturday, had an open invitation. By yesterday 500 people had accepted the invitation on Facebook.

Senior Sergeant Cliff Metcalfe says Police became very concerned when they heard about the party, particularly in light of a recent party in Hamilton that got out of control. At this party there were numerous arrests for disorderly behaviour, private property was damaged and Police were pelted with various objects by party goers.

“We didn’t want to see a repeat of that in Whangarei, so we visited the young man and his family to discuss the consequences of holding a large scale party with an open invitation and alcohol that was likely to be accessed by underage people.”

Mr Metcalfe says the party was not going to be held at the family’s address. The man’s family were not aware that the party had been advertised on Facebook. After listening to Police’s concerns the teenager agreed to cancel the party and the cancellation was notified on Facebook.

“Police will not tolerate any anti-social behaviour in the streets. This party had the potential to cause a lot of damage with hundreds of people turning up and drinking alcohol.

Mr Metcalfe says fortunately the young man saw sense and cancelled the party. He is also full of praise for the man’s family who supported the stance the Police were taking.

“Police heard about this party early and was able to take steps to stop it. However, this Saturday we will still patrol the street where the party was going to held to ensure the safety of the residents.”

For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 945 4650 or 021 192 1099