Rugby League World Cup: Fans urged to keep celebrations within ‘reasonable hours’ after noise complaints
Fans supporting their teams in the Rugby League World Cup are urged to celebrate safely - especially on the roads.
They are also being encouraged to celebrate “within reasonable hours” after residents made noise complaints relating to parades and celebrations that have continued late into the night and early hours of the morning.
Police confirmed they had received a number of complaints and a handful of arrests for various incidents in Ōtāhuhu and Māngere East last night. However, the majority of those arrests were not in relation to the celebrations.
Inspector Keki Wilson said police were pleased with the overall behaviour of those celebrating the RLWC so far and those showcasing their country pride.
“While most supporters have celebrated responsibly, Police have received a number of complaints where parades and celebrations have continued late into the night and early hours of the morning - impacting residents and communities.
“We encourage everyone to celebrate in a way that shows respect for those around them, recognising that many people are trying to sleep, work or go about their daily lives.
“By keeping celebrations safe, considerate and within reasonable hours, supporters can help ensure these occasions remain a positive reflection of their community.”
Spontaneous and organised vehicle parades have been a popular celebratory event specifically for Toa Samoa and Mate Ma’a Tonga fans in previous years.
A sea of red covered Sydney’s CommBank Stadium last night, as Tonga thrashed Lebanon 36-0 in their second win in the tournament.
Samoa take on Papua New Guinea at the PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby today. And although those games are overseas, fans based in New Zealand are big on backing them.
For many fans, it is a chance to show off pride for their motherland and culture.
However, dangerous behaviour at and around those vehicle parades has been highlighted in previous years.
“High-risk driving behaviours - including riding on top of vehicles or bonnets and hanging out of windows - can have serious consequences,” Wilson said.
“Drivers are responsible for their passengers and their actions. Make sure you are looking after each other, respecting your community and obeying the road rules.”
Wilson said police would continue to have a presence in parts of Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington during the tournament.
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