Christchurch police on alert ahead of 'final cruise'

A bylaw coming into effect next month will ban groups of cars congregating on the streets. Photo / Wanganui Chronicle

Boy racers in Christchurch are being warned not to try the patience of their community.

Social networking sites have been used to promote "one final cruise" through Christchurch streets ahead of a bylaw banning groups of cars congregating, which comes into effect next week.

From Thursday, cars seen repeatedly cruising the same stretch of road between 10pm and 5am may be fined up to $1000.

Last night police received complaints about a crowd throwing bottles at passing cars and urinating in neighbouring gardens.

But Christchurch mayor Bob Parker said police had assured him they would be out in force tonight.

He said if people wanted to break the law, they would be treated accordingly.

Mr Parker said the citizens of Christchurch were fed up with the racers' selfish and dangerous behaviour.

"It's costing lives, it's costing livelihoods and it's costing peace of mind, and we are not going to put up with it," he told 3 News.

"That's a clear message from the people of Christchurch."

- NEWSTALK ZB, NZHERALD STAFF