Extra security at Vinegar Hill

A SIGNIFICANT police and security presence will be evident at the Vinegar Hill (Putai Ngahere Reserve) camping ground near Hunterville on New Year’s Eve to deter unwelcome visitors from causing problems.

A police drink-drive checkpoint may also be set up to check motorists leaving, or attempting to enter, the reserve during the day and night.

The increased police-security measure follows a liaison between the Manawatu District Council and police to ensure that next Thursday night’s festivities are trouble-free.
About 3000 people gathered at the reserve for the last New Year’s Eve party, many of them attending the annual gay (Mardi Gras) festival.

Sergeant Peter Wood, of Marton, said increasing cases of drunkenness and disorderly behaviour, in a relatively isolated location, were cause for concern and prompted authorities to police the event more rigorously.

“The trouble comes mainly from outsiders,” he said, “with very few problems from those at the Mardi Gras or others camping in the reserve.”

Parks and Reserves Manager, Albert James, said security personnel would be on site for 24 hours from 10am Thursday and policing the main entrance and viewing camping receipts on request.
“It means that after a certain time on New Year’s Eve people won’t be able to gain entry,” said Mr James. “No one wants any trouble and we certainly don’t want people drinking and driving.”