Bay of Plenty Police are praising the majority of New Year’s revellers after a relatively uneventful night across the District. As usual a minority of people prevented the festivities being trouble-free and alcohol was an unsurprising factor.
A combined effort by Police, volunteers and partner agencies resulted in a number of well organised and well attended events. Effective liquor bans reduced the potential for alcohol harm and there was an upbeat and friendly vibe between Police and the crowds.
Prevention Inspector Steve Bullock said: "The Bay of Plenty district has once again demonstrated its maturity in terms of providing a safe and responsible environment to see in the New Year. Apart from pockets of alcohol-fuelled incidents the night went well with communities and holiday-makers enjoying themselves and staying safe.
“Notwithstanding the combined efforts of local councils and emergency services, the friends and families were genuinely looking after each other and remaining positive throughout. A true friend is not the one who gets you out of the gutter, but the one who stops you getting into it.
“Alcohol remains a significant contributor to crime and reaches its pinnacle this time of the year as our communities enjoy the summer. If you choose to drink then please do so responsibly, most importantly be aware of your environment at all times. Know when to say when.”
Mount Maunganui continues to be the Bay of Plenty location that attracts the largest crowd. By 1am there had been 22 arrests in the Western Bay of Plenty. Arrests numbers in the other three areas by 1am were Rotorua 6, Taupo 7 and Eastern Bay of Plenty 1. The majority of the arrests were for alcohol-related disorder.
With the summer just beginning, the policing operation to prevent crime and disorder and keep everyone safe is continuing over the coming weeks and months.
“While Police are committed to keeping our communities safe and making them feel safe, we cannot do this alone. We need each and every one of you to look after yourselves to respect all others and their property. In many cases crime can be predicted and if so it can be prevented, so if you see something or know something, please stand up and speak up,” said Inspector Bullock.
Please note: Local Area Commanders may be available for local comment after approximately midday today. For any further queries please contact Prevention Manager Inspector Steve Bullock on 021 191 3686 after midday.
The Bay of Plenty Police District covers the Western Bay of Plenty (including Tauranga and Mt Maunganui), Eastern Bay of Plenty (including Whakatane and Opotiki), Rotorua and Taupo (including Tokoroa and Turangi).