Police happy with New Year celebrations, so far

Assistant News Director and Multimedia Journalist·Bay of Plenty Times·

31 Dec, 2016 09:19 AM2 mins to read

Fireworks are let off as part of a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration on Tauranga's waterfront. Photo/George Novak

Partygoers in Mount Maunganui and Tauranga are keeping police pleased, with minimal arrests and little trouble so far in the lead up to midnight this New Year's Eve.

So far tonight there has been two arrests, one in Papamoa and one at Baypark Stadium where an under-18 party is being held.

Western Bay of Plenty area commander Inspector Clifford Paxton said things were going ''pretty well'' so far.

''What we are seeing is a good tone. It's clear the bars and Mount main strip and the Strand in Tauranga are a lot busier than the Mount main beach,'' he said.

Western Bay of Plenty area commander Inspector Clifford Paxton on patrol during New Year celebrations. Photo/file

Earlier this year Tauranga City Council made the decision to cancel the annual New Year's Eve party held at Mount Maunganui's main beach after reports of inappropriate behaviour last year. Parts of Mount Maunganui at the main beach, such as Moturiki (Leisure) Island and Mount Drury have been fenced off, to help protect their environment.

Mr Paxton said there have been no reports of anyone attempting to jump the fences, but the night was still young.

''What we will see is that the crowds will continue to build in the night, particular in the bars about 1am when the Mount shuts and people transition to Tauranga through until 3am.''

Fireworks were let off at 9.30pm on Tauranga's waterfront as part of a family-friendly New Year's Eve barbecue.

Throngs of people filled the waterfront area to watch and a small crowd gathered with chairs and blankets on Matapihi's railway bridge.

Another fireworks display is expected to take place at midnight from a different location.

Mr Paxton said he was thankful for the work put in from Tauranga City Council, St John, security firms Aegis and Red Badge, Red Frog and Maori wardens - many of whom had travelling from out of town and away from their families to help keep Mount Maunganui safe.