Gang members clash in Rotorua house brawl

Police were called to a Bellingham Cres home after a brawl erupted around 10.20pm. Photo/Ben Fraser

A strong police presence is likely in Fordlands for a "lengthy amount of time" in response to rising gang tensions following a violent brawl.

Police were called to a property on Bellingham Cres around 10.20pm on Thursday to investigate a fight involving up to 10 gang members.

Reports on social media said the gang members were on the rampage, smashing every window in the house.

Those fighting were understood to be armed with hammers and knives, with reports of a gun being fired.

No one was injured.

Rotorua police prevention manager Inspector Stu Nightingale said the brawl was likely connected to an earlier altercation at a property on Milne Rd in Mangakakahi at 8.15pm.

Nightingale said today police would be keeping a strong presence in the Fordlands area.

"We will monitor the area quite closely for a lengthy amount of time to ensure nothing escalates further."

In June police responded to reports of a fight involving rival gang members on the same street. Police maintained a presence in the area overnight.

Sunset Primary School principal Niels Rasmussen said all he can in response to violence in the area was make sure the school was a safe place for his pupils.

"Gang altercations are out of our control. As long as we provide the best and most secure environment for the kids, there isn't much to worry about."

Several arrests were made for disorder in relation to Thursday night's incident.

Anyone with information about the incidents can call Rotorua police on (07) 349 9400 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.