New Years Eve revellers mostly well-behaved

Firework display from the top of the Sky Tower to welcome the New Year. Photo / Getty Images

Most of the country experienced peaceful New Year celebrations, despite the riot in Gisborne that ended with 63 arrests.

Bay of Plenty Police said most people at holiday hotspots including Mount Maunganui were well-behaved. Inspector Scott Fraser credited well-organised events, effective liquor bans, and positive interaction between revellers, police staff and volunteers.

By 1.30am there were 21 arrests at celebrations in Mount Maunganui. Police said this was the lowest number in the event's history.

Police said across the district, arrests were down on previous years and "little different to a regular Friday night in most areas."

Police said the Northern Communications Centre area, which handled enquiries for all areas north of Turangi, had a "very busy but unremarkable" New Year's Eve with most emergency calls relating to disorder, drunkenness and alcohol-fuelled violence.

Southern Police said there were no major incidents in the district's traditionally popular holiday destinations.Inspector Kelvin Lloyd said crowds in Queenstown and Wanaka were well behaved with only a few minor incidents.

"The vast majority of people have taken on board the police's prevention messages - drinking alcohol responsibly and looking after their friends and mates to ensure that everyone gets home safely from a good night out," Mr Lloyd said.

"It was great that there was plenty of organised entertainment for visitors to popular holiday destinations and that public events were well-managed and controlled," Southern Police added.

In Queenstown, 14 people were arrested for disorder and alcohol related offences, while in Wanaka seven were arrested for similar offences.

Dunedin had a relatively quiet night, with only nine people arrested for minor offences.

Police said there were no serious incidents at the Waitaki Lakes or in Southland.

In Gisborne, large-scale disorder broke out across two campgrounds being used for the BW Summer Festival.83 people were injured, including seven who needed hospital treatment.