Visitors and locals alike can expect a highly visible Police presence not only in Hamilton but across the Waikato to ensure all spectators have a safe and enjoyable time this weekend.
Waikato Police Operations Manager, Inspector John Kelly, said Hamilton is hosting a Rugby World Cup double header this weekend with the first game, the All Blacks v Japan kicking off at 8pm on Friday.
"The second match takes place between Wales and Samoa at 3.30pm on Sunday. But these games aren't the only big events being hosted in the Waikato this weekend with Whitianga holding the annual Scallop Festival on Saturday and Hamilton holding the four-hour Kiwi Cream rock concert at the Claudelands Arena the same day from 7pm.
"The key thing for us is ensuring an enjoyable time for all involved and maintaining a family friendly atmosphere at each event. To achieve this there will be large numbers of Police deployed at the various events and in Hamilton's CBD while at the same time ensuring we have staff to cover business as usual matters."
Mr Kelly said the Waikato had benefited from the experience of policing large scale events that was gained by hosting last year's World Rowing Champs, the visiting British and Irish Lions in 2005 and three rounds of the V8 Supercar series.
"Not only Police but our partner agencies and indeed the public have become used to planning ahead and adjusting their travel plans to accommodate the demands of big events.
"In addition to officers in the grounds and on the beat there will be a sizeable road policing presence out across the District ensuring people get to and from the events safely and to ensure we can respond quickly to any developing emergency."
A key to ensuring a successful weekend centred around responsible drinking and Police will be ensuring strict adherence to the Sale of Liquor Act in the stadiums, venues and in licensed premises in Hamilton's CBD.
"We're asking people to leave early to get to the games as all roads around Waikato Stadium will be closed before the games, except to those with vehicle passes.
"The Waikato has an established history of success in hosting large scale events and Hamilton has an fine reputation as the event capital of the country, by planning ahead and drinking responsibly the Rugby World Cup will be added to that list of successes."
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