Manawatu Police are concerned that alcohol fuelled antics of some campers are spoiling what should be enjoyable family holidays for people staying in some local campgrounds.
Inspector Sarah Stewart, Manawatu Area Commander, said police were called to one section of the Vinegar Hill campsite near Hunterville on four separate occasions last night, and four times in the last two days to a Levin campground.
“The Vinegar Hill campground is spread over two different sites. One section has a long established and well run New Year event which caused no problems for us.
“It was the small group of intoxicated people in the second site who made it difficult for family groups camping alongside them to enjoy what should have been a lovely night.”
The alcohol related complaints included disorderly behaviour, fighting, assault and dangerous driving.
Inspector Stewart said police will be working with Manawatu and Horowhenua District Councils to look at ways to prevent this behaviour from happening in the future.
“There’s been a lot of good work done with partner agencies including councils, event organisers and the hospitality industry to reduce alcohol related harm. We need to keep that momentum going to also include campsites so that everyone gets to safely enjoy their night.”
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Released by Kaye Calder, Police Public Affairs, mobile 021 192 2915