Use some commonsense – Police advise Raggamuffin fans

Rotorua Police are asking locals and visitors attending Raggamuffin in Rotorua this weekend to look after themselves and their mates and to use some commonsense before, during and after the event.

The Rotorua Police Area Tactical Response Manager, Inspector Ed van den Broek, says Police will have a visible presence around Rotorua International Stadium, in town and on the roads across the long weekend to help keep people safe.

"We're also asking people to take some responsibility for keeping themselves safe and out of trouble. Know what you can take into the venue, make sure you have a sober driver or a safe way to get home and familiarise yourself with the liquor ban areas."

Inspector van den Broek says bags will be searched by security at the venue entry points, and Police will provide support to security as required. He says weapons of any kind are not allowed at the event and anyone found trying to take weapons in to the venue will not be allowed entry for the duration of the concert.

"It is our job to prevent crime and crash and ensure the safety of our community and we will actively police before, during and after the event in order to achieve that. We don't make any apologies for taking a hard line if it means we can reduce the impact."

Inspector van den Broek says a temporary liquor ban is in place in the streets and parks surrounding Rotorua International Stadium, as there has been in previous years. The temporary liquor ban around the venue is additional to the permanent liquor ban in the Rotorua CBD and several suburban shopping centres and parks.

He says Police take a "low tolerance approach" to alcohol-related disorder or breach of liquor ban.

"This means that we will take some level of positive action."

Inspector van den Broek says this low tolerance approach, combined with other initiatives, are in place for a reason – to manage issues early to prevent major problems, crime and disorder later.

"This is a busy time for Police, but this event is now business as usual for us every year. We plan to be busy during this period and we have the people and resources in place to prevent and manage issues and we simply get on with the job that needs to be done."

Rotorua Police would like to reinforce the following advice to Festival goers:

• Drive safely. If you are tired, fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs don’t drive.
• Be patient. Expect delays on the roads and at access points to the venue.
• Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water.
• Comply with the liquor ban. You cannot take alcohol into the event, but you can purchase liquor inside the venue.
• Look after yourself and look after your mates

Inspector van den Broek says residents in the Stadium area are urged to contact Police immediately if they saw any breaches of the law or liquor ban by dialing 111.

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