Northland Police want to ensure safe and enjoyable time for rugby fans
Tuesday 13 September 2011, 7:44PM
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Northland Police will have a large number of staff deployed during Rugby World Cup games in Whangärei to ensure that spectators have a safe and enjoyable time.
The first game, Tonga v Canada, takes place at 5.00pm tomorrow and the next game, Tonga v Japan, takes place on Wednesday September 21 at 7.30pm.
Northland Police (RWC 2011) Operations Manager Inspector Murray Hodson says there will be a large number of police staff deployed in and around the stadium and in the CBD from early Wednesday afternoon to the early hours of Thursday morning.
"There will also be a number of staff policing the roads to ensure we can respond quickly to any emergency.
We will also be ensuring strict adherence to the Sale of Liquor Act in the stadium and at licensed premises in the CBD."
Mr Hodson is asking people to leave early to get to the games and says they should expect a 10 - 15 minute walk to the stadium, as all roads directly around the stadium will be closed before the game, except to those with vehicle passes.
Police are also aware of a mass haka being planned in the CBD at 4.00pm tomorrow.
"We have no intention of stopping this event, as it is a celebration of the Rugby World Cup in Northland. However, we encourage those taking part to consider others and any impact a large gathering such as this could have on the public," says Mr Hodson.