Ball party is news to occupant

Warnings have been sent about after-ball parties. Photo / Thinkstock

Police and school principals have issued warnings about an after-ball party planned for a former pub in Turakina tomorrow - although the man who lives there knows nothing about it.

Wanganui City College and Wanganui Girls' College have their respective senior school balls tomorrow night and police believe there is an after-ball party planned for the same night.

The party, to be held in the old Railway Hotel in Turakina on SH3, is said to be open to all secondary pupils who buy an admission ticket. Police have sent a letter to schools advising them of the event and warning the organisers and attendees of potential legal action should it go ahead.

The Chronicle visited the hotel-turned-home yesterday and talked it its occupant, who said he knew nothing about any party taking place there.

"We have duck shooters stay during the season but that's it, and they've all left now. I certainly don't know about any after-ball parties."

Vivianne Murphy, principal of Wanganui Girls' College, said her school hadn't had issues with such events in the past but had concerns this year.

"Our balls are well-run, the students respect it and see it as a fun event run by the school, and when we're made aware of events like these we don't condone them.

"The venue is on a public road and when alcohol is involved there's always a worry about people getting hurt, whether they're students or adults," she said.

Peter Kaua, principal of Wanganui City College, said he had also sent letters to parents explaining the school did not condone pre- or after-ball parties after police visited the school with news of the event.

"As I said to the students, it's all about safety," he said.