"There's heaps of people, it's crazy. It's summer and the weather's nice. Everybody's out ... guys' shirts are off and people are dancing. It's awesome," he said.
Mr Mase said many people were drinking alcohol, but the atmosphere was relaxed and felt safe.
Other popular areas such as the Coromandel and Whangamata had been well behaved last night also, authorities said.
Inspector Steve Kose said they had dozens of extra staff on in those areas, as well as in downtown Auckland.
"It seems like everything's going well at the moment. Yes, we have had a few disorders in some of those places, but no major disorders."
In downtown Auckland, many families with young children were taking advantage of the fine evening and enjoying a meal out.
Revellers were expected to arrive much later in the night and early hours of the morning and police reported no major problems around the city early last night.
Gisborne's annual Rhythm and Vines festival also proved to be a big hit again - despite a few showers that may have dampened a few people's fun.
Around 20,000 people were in town for the three-day gig; which featured a special appearance from internet guru Kim Dotcom.
Dotcom accompanied the festival's midnight fireworks display and showed off some of his DJ-ing skills; playing tunes from his new album, Good Times.
