Police response and reassurance patrols are keeping an eye on bars and other licensed premises in Christchurch suburban areas to ensure alcohol related offending is kept to a minimum.
There were 29 arrests overnight in the city, with alcohol a significant factor.
Superintendent Russell Gibson said response and reassurance patrols were kept busy overnight attending to entertainment hubs in the suburbs, including the Riccarton Road and Deans Avenue areas.
"The number of arrests last night is similar to normal Saturdays in the city," he said. "The difference is that the alcohol related offending is happening in the suburbs instead of the inner city entertainment venues which are inside the cordon.
"We are seeing some displacement effect with larger numbers of people socialising at venues closer to home."
High visibility police reassurance and response patrols are continuing to operate across Christchurch including the outskirts such as Rangiora.
"We know these are stressful times and that it's not unusual for people to turn to alcohol for some extra support," Superintendent Gibson said. "Alcohol isn't the answer. If you are going to drink, then please do so safely and responsibly.
"It's more important than ever that people who are out enjoying themselves do so safely without causing problems for others."
Police encourage people to continue to report any suspicious activity or if they have concerns about large scale gatherings.
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Christchurch Media Liaison Team: 027 432 0960 or ChchPoliceMediaLiason@police.govt.nz
Public Affairs: 04 460 2986 or 04 474 9482