Editorial: Peaceful start, let's keep it up

A relatively incident-free start to the new year will, I'm sure, have left a smile on the faces of police officers all over the country.

Apart from Christchurch, where police wearing full riot gear shut down an out-of-control party shortly before midnight, reports have been of happy revellers enjoying a night out.

Here in Hawke's Bay, about 22 people were arrested in Napier, three in Hastings and three in Waimarama.

Thousands of people flocked to the Sound Shell on Marine Parade in Napier. One person I spoke to said the atmosphere was great and they felt really safe.

They said while they didn't notice a big police presence there was plenty of security.

The liquor ban and the fact that Napier doesn't have a huge number of bars in the CBD have made this New Year's Eve party something that families can enjoy without worrying about drunken louts ruining their night.

However, police were out in force at Waimarama Beach, a traditional troublespot.

Thirteen police officers were on duty until 4am yesterday.

I'm sure there were incidents but, all in all, the start to 2014 was calm and peaceful. Let's hope that's a sign of things to come.

Imagine a year with no bloodshed.

A year when everyone is nice to their neighbour.

Now that would be something to celebrate.