Police arrested 12 people at Beach Hop on Saturday night and 20 were processed for drink-driving.
Police Acting Senior Sergeant Niwha Jones said in a media statement it was “unacceptable and disappointing”.
“We know that intoxication increases the chance of causing harm on the road, and despite a strong police presence, some motorists still decided to take that risk.”
Unfortunately, 74 infringement notices were issued for breaches of the liquor ban, 20 drivers were processed for excess breath alcohol and 12 people were arrested on Saturday night for various disorder offences.
However, Jones said police would like to acknowledge the behaviour of almost all attendees at the Whangamatā Beach Hop, which returned to its traditional March timeslot this weekend.