12 arrests, 74 infringements over Beach Hop

Waikato Police arrested 12 people for various disorder offences during the main night of this year’s Beach Hop. 
The well-attended event returned to its traditional March timeslot this past week, with the final couple of days being held in Whangamatā.
Waikato Police said the event was “well run” and the vast majority of participants were “well behaved and enjoyed a great weekend”.
However, 74 infringement notices were issued for breaches of the liquor ban, and twelve people were arrested on Saturday night for various disorder offences.
Twenty drivers were also processed for excess breath alcohol.
“This is unacceptable and disappointing for Police,” said a post on the law enforcement’s Facebook page.
“We know that intoxication increases the chance of causing harm on the road, and despite a strong Police presence some motorists still decided to take that risk.”
Earlier, Thames-Coromandel District Council anticipated “large crowds” throughout the rohe [area] and said there was a 24/7 alcohol ban in place for the duration of Beach Hop, which Police would enforce.