Police are warning students to be on their best behaviour as a traditionally rowdy party day looms.
Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond said there would be a heavy police presence in North Dunedin tomorrow for St Patrick’s Day.
Students would be reminded of their obligations under the Covid-19 rules, Snr Sgt Bond said.
Students needed to be mindful of their behaviour in public places and act like tidy New Zealanders who were considerate of neighbours.
There were concerns about large outdoor gatherings, especially at the North Ground, bordered by two state highways.
While most students were well behaved, there was always a "village idiot" who would ruin things, Snr Sgt Bond said.
Partygoers were encouraged to drink responsibly, be conscious of their surroundings, look after their friends and dress to the weather.
It was also important to consume food and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day.
He was hopeful there would not be any more couch fires.
A spate of furniture fires in Castle St on Saturday night had been "disappointing".
There had been a lot of work done to discourage the tradition, Snr Sgt Bond said.
He did not think students fully appreciated the dangers posed to people and property.
A University of Otago spokeswoman said lighting couch fires was dangerous and would be treated as a serious breach of the student code of conduct.
In a message sent to students yesterday afternoon, proctor Dave Scott thanked the "vast majority" of students who did the right thing and helped to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
He encouraged students to drink responsibly tomorrow and stay safe as hospital staff were stretched.
