Police dodge firework missiles at Rotorua party

Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

An officer was injured as police dodged fireworks and beer cans while breaking up an out-of-control Rotorua party early this morning.

Senior Sergeant Dennis Murphy said police were called to a Logan Street party at 12.15am due to reports of "fighting, disorder and drunkenness" involving about 100 teenagers.

Fights broke out as police closed the party down and partygoers began throwing cans and fireworks at police, Mr Murphy said.

"At one point a police officer was knocked to the ground from behind as he attempted to arrest a firework thrower," he said.

The police officer received lacerations to his face and eye area after he fell and hit his head on the edge of a concrete footpath.

He was taken to Rotorua Hospital, where he was treated and discharged, and was expected to return to duty tonight.

Mr Murphy said throwing fireworks at police was an "extremely dangerous, stupid and criminal act".

Using a firework like a weapon could result in serious injuries if it hit someone or went off in the thrower's hand.

"This was another alcohol-fuelled incident involving large numbers of underage youth drinking to excess," he added.

Mr Murphy urged anyone considering supplying alcohol to underage youth to think seriously about the consequences of their actions.

Police arrested an 18-year-old man, who is charged with disorderly behaviour, and will appear in the Rotorua District Court next week.

- NZPA