Christchurch New Years Operation

A large good natured crowd welcomed in the New Year in Christchurch's Cathedral Square. The crowd, estimated to number 10,000 to 15,000 behaved well with large numbers of family groups attending the celebrations.

"The concentration by Council security staff and Police on alcohol ban breaches undoubtedly contributed to the positive atmosphere", said Inspector Derek Erasmus, the Canterbury Central Area Commander. 40 extra Police staff worked in the Central City as part of the operation.

Outside of the Square, there was a serious crash on Ferry Road prior to midnight where a pedestrian was hit by a car. The injured male is in hospital with serious injuries. The crash is under investigation by the Serious Crash Unit.

There were the expected fights, family violence incidents, and assaults with alcohol playing a significant role in most of these.

In Christchurch between 9 p.m. on the 31st and 5 a.m. on the 1st, Police arrested 138 people with 57 of these going through the cells at the Central Station (the cells were full). 53 of these were for breach of the Liquor ban.

Derek Erasmus is available after midday on Friday 1 January 2010 for comment by phone. He can be reached through the Christchurch Police Operator on 363 7400 (they will put you through to his cellphone)