Police will have patrols out in force

Ticket sales for the clash hit 11,000 yesterday. Photo / Getty Images

Police are urging rugby fans and revellers to be on their best behaviour this weekend.

Thousands will flock to McLean Park tonight to see the Hurricanes-Highlanders match, with many people travelling from out of town.

Officers are set to patrol the game itself and will make their presence felt at popular drinking spots in Napier afterwards.

"We're expecting the city to be busy this weekend, not just with revellers but with traffic on the roads as well," Senior Sergeant Ross Smith said.

"Our message is to be patient in traffic and take it easy on the alcohol - the last thing we want is to have the weekend spoiled by idiots who get carried away and cause trouble."

Patrols will be boosted in the central business district tonight and on Saturday night to keep a lid on disorderly behaviour.

The police have also been working with bar owners and managers to reinforce host responsibility and prevent intoxicated punters from being served.

"We all need to play our part in keeping the city safe during big weekends like this one.

"Lots of people combined with increased alcohol consumption can result in problems."

The overall message was one of drinking in moderation with compulsory alcohol breath-testing checkpoints and roadside checks being put in place to enforce that.

"If you're going out, make sure you have a nominated sober driver or get a taxi or a ride home - don't take the risk of driving when you have been drinking."

Hawke's Bay Rugby Union commercial manager Jay Campbell said they worked with multiple organisations, including police, to ensure everything ran smoothly.

"We want people to have a great time but also to respect others, and stay out of trouble."

Ticket sales hit 11,000 yesterday but, with a forecast for fine weather and the draw of a Super 15 match-up, they were likely to get plenty of walk-ups today.

"With a Highlanders team stacked full of Magpies, the Hurricanes doing really well, this is the game to watch," he said.

Those buying on the day should be aware ticket prices go up, after 2pm from $15 for adults to $20, so it pays to buy online or through the rugby union.

Mr Campbell also reminded people to get in early and take their seats - particularly if they don't have a ticket in hand.

There will be a curtain-raiser game between Hastings Boys' High School 1st XV and the visiting Palmerston North Boys' High School, kicking off at 5.30pm.