Few incidents have been reported to police in Wanaka so far this holiday season but more than 60 police officers are now waiting in the wings to crack down on any sign of trouble as people arrive to party in Central Otago.
"So far, it has been excellent," Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell said yesterday.
The first shift of extra officers started work yesterday and officers walking the beat were making a difference, he said.
One group of young men had been moved on for drinking in public.
They said they were not aware of the town's public liquor ban.
Most people should know the holiday resorts had public liquor bans, Snr Sgt Grindell said.
The festivities begin today with a concert at Lake Hawea Hotel.
Inspector Dave Miller, of Dunedin, is in Wanaka to lead the New Years Eve and New Years Day operation later this week.
About 45 extra police officers from Dunedin are rostered to assist that operation and during other "at risk" times, Snr Sgt Grindell said.
