June 17

"Rotorua Police praise community engagement"

Rotorua Police are praising the good humour and high levels of community engagement shown by people across the city ahead of and during tonight’s match between the Māori All Blacks and the British and Irish Lions.

Inspector Kevin Taylor said Rotorua had been “buzzing” for two days as residents mixed with visiting Lions fans to create an “awesome atmosphere” in the city centre and at the match.

“It started last night with the Matariki Parade and the fireworks display.

That set the tone in terms of the community engagement and there’s been a real feel-good factor around town all day, with the haka record this morning and on throughout the game.

“Town has been busier than it is on New Year’s Eve, and there have been no major issues.”

Inspector Taylor said a large number of Māori wardens and community patrol volunteers from across the Bay of Plenty District had been in Rotorua to support Police.

“We’re really grateful for their assistance and for the work they do, and they’ve played a big part in the success of this event.

“This has been a big commitment for Bay of Plenty Police, and our staff have enjoyed engaging with our local residents and international visitors.”

Police evicted one person at the match and three others were arrested - two for disorder and one for theft.

ENDS

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