Seven people were arrested in connection with 17 incidents of assault, drunkenness and disorder between 7pm on Wednesday night and 6.30am on Thursday.
Senior Sergeant Steve Aitken said there was also a considerable number of reports or assault and disorder in the greater Dunedin area.
"Some people can't drink and not do something stupid. It's alcohol in, sensible gene out. We see it so often."
Hundreds of business employees gathered in the Octagon to celebrate the festive season when offices closed about noon on Wednesday.
Despite the number of incidents, Snr Sgt Aitken said the day had not been as busy as he had expected.
However, New Year's eve was expected to be another busy day, and he offered some friendly advice for festive revellers.
"Go out and enjoy yourselves, but limit the amount of alcohol you drink, so you can still make rational and good decisions.
"Everyone has done it. We drink and then do things we wouldn't normally do.
"It's not much fun waking up in a six-by-eight cell during your Christmas or New Year holiday. Take it easy."
Snr Sgt Craig Brown, of Dunedin, yesterday said Christmas Eve had been quieter, with revellers "pretty well behaved".
Police were yesterday also dealing with an aggravated assault involving someone on a mobility scooter, after a call at 1.15pm yesterday.
The incident occurred in Cutten St, South Dunedin.
Snr Sgt Brown said police were not releasing any more information yesterday, and the incident was being investigated.
