10 December 1999

Council and Police join forces to create alcohol-free area at millennium event.

The Christchurch City Council and the Police have joined forces to create a significant alcohol-free area at Christchurch’s millennium celebration in Hagley Park on New Years Eve. The initiative is believed to be a first for New Zealand.

The alchohol-free area covers most of Hagley Park north of Riccarton Avenue, including the Botanic Gardens, the special parking area off Deans Avenue, the Golf Course and half of the audience area. Those wishing to consume alcohol at ‘In the Park 2000’ will still be able to do so, but only in the other half of the audience area. Originally the Police sought a total alcohol ban. The current plan is a compromise for both parties, but one that the Police and the Council believe will encourage responsible drinking and good behaviour.

The event’s producer, Michelle Beckett says “Our main concern is that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at the event and if having an alcohol-free area helps the Police to achieve that, then we are happy to co-operate.” Concert-goers who simply want to pop open a bottle of bubbly at midnight to celebrate the special occasion will be able to do so. “The unsociable behaviour of a very small number of people at other outdoor events isn’t reason enough to spoil the fun for the majority of people who want to enjoy a glass or two of wine,” says Ms Beckett. “With this plan, those who wish to drink will be able to and the Police will be in a better position to monitor the situation and ensure a safe environment for everyone.”

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