Bay of Plenty celebrates relatively quiet New Year

The Bay of Plenty Police District has celebrated a relatively quiet and trouble-free New Year, with largely well-behaved crowds intent on enjoying the New Years milestone.

The Bay of Plenty Police District covers the Western Bay of Plenty (including Tauranga and Mt Maunganui), Eastern Bay of Plenty (including Whakatane, Ohope and Opotiki), Rotorua and Taupo (including Tokoroa and Turangi).

The Bay of Plenty Police District Commander, Superintendent Glenn Dunbier, says well-organised public events across the District, responsible bar owners, extended liquor bans and highly visible numbers of Police all combined to ensure that New Years Eve passed peacefully in the Bay of Plenty.

He says although there were large crowds at events across the Bay of Plenty, there were no significant incidents or disorder, and just three minor car crashes across the entire District.

"The summer period – and particularly the peak Christmas and New Year festive season – is a busy time for us in the Bay of Plenty, but it is very much business as usual for us now. Our objective is to ensure that people feel safe and reassured on the street, beaches, roads and in their homes this summer, including New Years Eve.

"We plan to be busy during this period and we have the people and the resources in place to manage it.

"That strategy, combined with the work underway with our partner agencies such as local councils, helps ensure the Bay of Plenty is a safe and friendly place for families and people of all ages to celebrate the festive season."

Superintendent Dunbier says feedback from the four Police Areas within the District indicates that there were well-behaved crowds across the region, with the view that there was less intoxication than previous years.

"Crowds were largely well-behaved and revellers were in good spirits. There was a noticeable family-friendly atmosphere at events across the region. This is a really important development for communities across the Bay of Plenty, and local residents and visitors alike are to be commended for their positive approach to New Years festivities.

"The success of the evening, in terms of a well-behaved crowd, and no major incidents or disorder, can be attributed to the hard work and positive attitude of volunteers, Council and health workers, Police, bar owners and others across the Bay of Plenty. They deserve a vote of thanks for their efforts and dedication, which has helped ensure a successful and safe night for members of the public."

Superintendent Dunbier says if there was one negative aspect from the New Years Eve operation, it is that there are still people who continue to drink and drive on the region's roads.

"While many thousands of people took the responsible option with a sober driver or alternative transport, unbelievably, some people continue to drive after they have been drinking, putting themselves and every other road user at risk."

Superintendent Dunbier says the Bay of Plenty Police District's summer policing operation doesn't finish with New Years Day, and its summer policing activities will continue to be in place until Waitangi Weekend in February.

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