Rugby World Cup Games All Wrapped Up in Southern

A lively and festive atmosphere at the Ireland versus Italy match in Dunedin this evening [2 October] has marked the final curtain for Rugby World Cup matches in Southern District.

Police say the behaviour of the sell-out crowd was largely good humoured.

One man was arrested for attempting to re-enter the stadium grounds after being evicted, and five intoxicated people were barred from entering the grounds.

Two people were evicted for disorderly behaviour and five for intoxication. One was evicted for running onto the pitch after the game.

St John treated 14 people during the match for minor medical matters, including one Irish team member who was hospitalised.

Dunedin Area Commander Inspector Dave Campbell said he was extremely pleased with the way the operational planning had been executed during the Dunedin matches at Otago Stadium, given police were working in a new venue.

"Our staff have risen to the challenge of working in the new stadium. Getting to know the layout and aspects of the building are critical to effective policing, and staff have been quick to familiarise themselves. They've done a great job."

Inspector Campbell said police had been impressed with the crowd behaviour at Dunedin matches and the minimal number of arrests and disorder-related incidents. Police interactions with fans had been friendly and largely positive, he said.

Southern District has hosted six matches from Pool B, with the Ireland v Italy match being the sole Pool C match held in the district. Three matches have been held in Invercargill and four in Dunedin.

Southern District Commander Superintendent Bob Burns said sound planning, professionalism and a friendly, visible presence have been the hall marks of the Southern policing operation.

"This approach has certainly contributed to the festive 'vibe' that has been prevalent across the region, an atmosphere which has been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

He paid tribute to the significant behind-the-scenes planning work that staff had undertaken to ensure that the month-long policing operation had been successful.

"Obviously, these events are hugely resource intensive and staff from all facets of our organisation have risen to the challenge in professionally executing our operational plans with the kind of attitude we are renowned for," he said.

"Our staff can be proud of their contribution to this exciting international event," he said.