Today the Herald begins a series on resorts which draw thousands - and often a few troublemakers. AINSLEY THOMSON visits Whangamata
Whangamata, on the Coromandel Peninsula, has a permanent population of 5000 but is a holiday magnet which attracts up to 55,000 on New Year's Eve.
It is a popular destinationfor holiday-makers in search of beaches and water activities.
A traditional trouble spot on New Year's Eve, the town has a history of riots but has been quieter in the past five years due to a large police presence and a liquor ban.
The most popular place to be is the Esplanade, where holidaymakers, surfers and boy-racers gather around midnight.
A liquor ban covering the entire area started at 4pm on Tuesday and will stay in place until 4pm on January 6.
Drinking is permitted only in bars and on private property. Alcohol cannot be carried in cars.
The town normally has six police officers, but this number swells to around 100 on New Year's Eve.
A new $1 million police station has two large holding cells that can take 100 people.
Police expect the cells to be filled to capacity on New Year's Eve.
Last year more than 650 people were arrested for breaching the liquor ban, including 190 on New Year's Eve.
"We plan for the worst, hope for the best and pray it rains," said Constable Andrew Hartley from Whangamata police.
Many bands are visiting Whangamata on their summer tours. These include the feelers, Elemeno P and Steriogram.
Other attractions include Whanga Week and the Whangamata Summer Festival.
