Rugby World Cup flag crackdown

Makeshift flagpoles on vehicles are potentially dangerous and safety must come first, particularly on the roads, say police. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Police will be cracking down on large flags and makeshift flagpoles attached to fans' vehicles during the Rugby World Cup.

Counties Manukau police have this week asked members of the Pacific community to make safety the first consideration, while supporting their favourite rugby team.

The call comes after a number of supporters, particularly Tongan and Samoan fans, put makeshift flagpoles on their vehicle roofs.

Others have clipped large flags to the boot of the car, with the flag waving wildly behind.

Counties Manukau police Pacific co-ordinator Willie Maea said it was understandable fans wanted to show their support, however safety was still the priority - particularly on the road.

"We're seeing a lot of cars which have people inside them holding large flags out the window.

"Many of those are young children and if there's an accident, that flagpole could hit them easily."

The makeshift flagpoles were also a potential hazard.

"They're taping things on and especially with the windy conditions, you can imagine a flag could easily fly off and hit another car and cause an accident."

Another issue is the number of people cramming into the one vehicle during particular days of celebration. Police reiterated the message that each person must have a seatbelt on.

Mr Maea encouraged members of the public to continue to support their favourite team without the large flags on cars. The popular smaller car flags were still okay, he said.

The message has been sent to members of the Pacific community and police are asking people to spread the word through various networks, including on Pacific radio stations and at church services.

Tongan community leader Salote Lilo said she understood why the police had finally brought up the issue, as some cars were becoming obvious hazards on the road.

"We couldn't believe it at first. They go out of their way to get big things and attach it to their towbar. It's fun, but can be dangerous."

Mrs Lilo has four small flags - the Tongan, Samoan, Fijian and New Zealand - attached to her car.