Source: Radio New Zealand
The annual Whangamatā Beach Hop attracted tens of thousands to the seaside town. RNZ/Yiting Lin
Police say they arrested considerably more people at Whangamatā’s Beach Hop car event than in recent years.
Tens of thousands of people flocked to the event at the seaside town on the Coromandel Penninsula, but police were kept busy with anti-social behaviour as evening fell.
“This is an enjoyable event, which is so important for the local economy, and it was run really well with participants and attendees having a great time, and mostly behaving themselves,” Eastern Waikato area commander Inspector Mike Henwood said.
“Unfortunately, some of the people attracted to the event caused some issues for police later in the night.”
Thirty were arrested for fighting in a public place and disorderly behaviour, and about 40 liquor ban infringement notices were issued.
“While the amount of people blatantly ignoring the longstanding liquor ban in the area is similar to recent years, the number of arrests is considerably higher,” Henwood said.
“It is extremely disappointing that the behaviour of some people required us to make arrests, issue tickets and deal with drink drivers. However, it was anticipated, which is why there was an increased police presence carrying out foot patrols and checkpoints in the area.
“We encourage those attending these types of events to have fun, but in a safe and lawful manner,”
More than 3000 drivers were breath-tested in the area during the weekend, with 11 exceeding breath alcohol limits.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
