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A police officer was struck by a bottle as officers moved to disperse large crowds of intoxicated youths causing disorder at Coromandel beach towns overnight.
Police say around 1000 youths gathered at Williamson Park in Whangamatā, while a further 300 congregated near the Surf Club Reserve in Pauanui.
At about 10.30pm, bottles were thrown towards Police carrying out foot patrols in Williamson Park, with one officer being hit. Police say the officer was not injured.
Fireworks were also let off within the crowd.
Police repeatedly directed the group to leave the park using a loudhailer, however those instructions were ignored and officers were forced to move the crowd on.
In nearby Pauanui, Police encountered further issues while responding to fireworks being set off dangerously within the crowd. As officers arrested one person, a large number of youths became physically obstructive.
Eastern Waikato Area Commander Mike Henwood says the behaviour was unacceptable.
“Not only does this behaviour put my team at risk, it also puts other attending youth at risk,” Henwood says.
“New Year’s Eve heading into New Year’s morning was particularly uneventful, with most people celebrating in a safe and orderly manner.
“It is disappointing that after a good night, it was then ruined by intoxicated youth in denial that New Year’s is over.”
Henwood says Police welcome visitors to the Coromandel over summer, but expectations around behaviour remain clear.
“It’s great that people want to come and enjoy our Coromandel beaches over the summer period, and we encourage everyone to celebrate the New Year – but it needs to be done in a safe and respectful manner.”
Seven youths were arrested in Whangamatā, including two during the clearing of Williamson Park. One youth was arrested in Pauanui.
Police are urging anyone who witnesses antisocial or dangerous behaviour to report it immediately by calling 111.
