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Get the info before going to the game!

Thursday 22 September 2011, 12:12PM

By New Zealand Police

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ROTORUA

Bay of Plenty Police are asking people attending this Sunday's RWC game in Rotorua to plan ahead and be prepared so that they can have the best possible experience before, during and after the game.

The RWC Operation Commander for Bay of Plenty, Inspector Scott Fraser, says this Sunday's game between Ireland and Russia is the most popular game to be held in Rotorua, and he wants people to have all the information they need before they head off to the game.

Inspector Fraser says there is car parking available at the Stadium, however, the area is expected to be extremely busy and he's encouraging people to look at all the different options available.

"There is free bus transport available from the Rotorua CBD to the Stadium before and after the game, and there is also a walking route that is well sign-posted from the CBD.

"If you do drive to the game, please make sure you lock your vehicle and take any valuables with you. Members of security and Police will be policing the areas outside the Stadium but we're asking people to help us and themselves by making sure their vehicle is secure in the first place."

Inspector Fraser says the gates open two hours before kick-off, and he is encouraging people to get to their seats early.

"The game is sold out and it's going to be a great atmosphere, but it will be busy. Attendees will be going through security on their way into the ground so the sooner people get there, the less time they will have to wait."

Inspector Fraser says people should also be aware that there is a temporary liquor ban in place in the streets and neighbourhoods surrounding the Rotorua International Stadium, including Devon St from the Stadium to Old Taupo Rd, and Springfield Rd from Devon St by the Stadium to Otonga Rd. There is also a liquor ban in place in the CBD and in most parks and reserves across the Rotorua Area.

"A liquor ban means alcohol cannot be consumed in these areas, regardless of whether you are having a picnic in the back of your car at the Stadium carpark, or if you are walking to the game.

"Reducing alcohol related harm is a focus for Police. We have a low tolerance approach to breach of liquor ban and we will take some level of positive action. Please make sure you know the rules around alcohol and where the liquor bans are."

Inspector Fraser says Police will be present inside and outside the Stadium before, during and after the game, and will also be very visible on the roads and in the CBD.

"This is a busy time for Police, but we experience a similar level of activity during Summer Policing in the Bay of Plenty, and we have a comprehensive operation in place to ensure that residents and visitors are able to enjoy RWC safely.

"We are approaching RWC in the same way that we would plan for any major event – albeit on a bigger scale."

Inspector Fraser says the Bay of Plenty Police operation is about making sure residents and visitors feel safe at RWC events, regardless of whether they are in their homes, at games or events, or on the roads during the 2011 RWC.

"We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience this weekend."

Bay of Plenty Police will provide updates and regular information before, during and after the game via its Twitter account www.twitter.com/boppolice

Information about the free bus, walking routes, liquor bans and conditions of entry is available on the Events and Venues website. http://www.eventsandvenues.co.nz/attendthematches