Operation Unite – a Blitz on Drunken Violence

New Zealand Police are hoping to reduce the number of victims from alcohol related crime by asking the public to say ‘Yeah, Nah’ more often this holiday weekend.

As part of Operation Unite, a trans-Tasman initiative with Australian Police, New Zealand Police are encouraging people to re-think how they host gatherings at home, how much they are drinking and their behaviour while and after drinking.

National Manager Prevention, Superintendent Bruce Bird said its time for a shift in the way we drink and attitudes towards how much we drink.

‘Risky drinking, drinking excessively and driving when drunk can all lead to serious consequences. When situations get out of control, Police too often have to deal with the result, which is violent crime, antisocial behaviour or the aftermath of a car crash’.

‘Everyone in the community can create change and help to shape our drinking culture to be a safer and more responsible one. Yeah Nah is a good response that everyone can use and one that should be supported and accepted’.

Mr Bird said it is unacceptable that simple steps to prevent alcohol related offending and harm are just ignored. It’s not good enough to simply think it won’t happen to you, your friends or your family.

Police this weekend will be targeting drink drivers, conducting inner city patrols to ensure no breaches within alcohol ban areas and visiting licensed premises.

Inspector Ben Offner, Manager Alcohol Harm Prevention says staff will be out and about to ensure the safety of the community with an aim to minimize alcohol-fuelled harm.

‘While Police will be active this weekend, we would also like to see people being safe when they are having guests drink in their homes, particularly when young people are present. It’s important for everyone to step up, take a lead and get the basics right’ says Mr Offner.

This Easter the message is simple:

Be a responsible host ensuring plenty of food and non alcoholic drinks.

Always be aware of how much you and your friends are drinking.

Stick together when going out or when heading home.

It’s ok to say Yeah, Nah.

Cool and relaxed is the attitude to have to avoid confrontations.

Sort out a Sober Driver or get a taxi home.

Operation Unite will be conducted for the eighth time this year and will be run over the Easter weekend from 6pm Thursday 17 April and 6am Monday 21 April 2014.

ENDS

© Scoop Media