Police planning in place for Lions’ Tour

Superintendent Ray Van Beynen from the Operations Group at the Office of the Commissioner says comprehensive plans are in place to police the Lions’ Tour.

"It is a major event for New Zealand, the scale and timeframe of the tour has not been seen for some time. Factors such as the first test commencing in late June, the busy nature of the last few weeks of the tour, Prince William’s visit and the expected large numbers of British supporters will all heighten public interest," says Superintendent Van Beynen.

The Lions are to play an eleven-match series in New Zealand, comprising of eight matches against provincial sides and New Zealand Maori and three test matches against the All Blacks. These test matches will be played on consecutive Saturdays in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland. All matches will be played in the evenings starting at 7.10 pm.

Police focus will be on traffic flow to ensure minimum disruption, the security of the visitors and monitoring after-match revelry at and around licensed premises. "We do not want to dampen the fun, but we want to make it clear that we will be doing our utmost to keep things safe and trouble free, not just for visitors but for local residents as well," he said.

Most metropolitan and provincial areas already have standard liquor bans in place. In most areas arrangements have been made by organised Lions supporters and the Barmy Army with licensees to avoid crowds building up in particular licensed premises.

"To avoid crowd congestion the public are encouraged to take public transport or travel to venues in groups, to arrive at the venues early, take their seats and follow the directions of stadium staff," Superintendent Van Beynen said.

"A small number of tickets were stolen in the Manawatu area. However the Rugby Union and stadium security will be vigilant about checking tickets and anyone in possession of stolen or forged tickets will face prosecution.

"There are a number of secure camper van parks for Lions supporters and visitors will be supplied with pamphlets containing information about security, road policing and consumption of alcohol in public places.

"Police have worked closely with the New Zealand Rugby Union, local authorities, provincial unions and stadiums, as well as the British High Commission and our planning and response to the events is geared to encouraging a safe atmosphere for local residents and our visitors.

"We anticipate numbers could jump significantly depending on how the tour progresses. We want people to enjoy themselves but to make sure they do so safely and don’t put themselves or others at risk," he said.

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