Police suggest lockdown to prevent bar hopping

A master plan to curb alcohol-related crime in central Rotorua may see lockdowns introduced to put an end to bar hopping.

Patrons will be allowed to stay until closing but from a certain time, once they leave they won't be allowed back and will not be given entry to any other bars.

The idea will be trialled this New Year's Eve with a blanket lockdown being planned from 2am.

Driven by Rotorua police, the plan needs buy-in from licensees and patrons for it to work because it can't be enforced legally. It will be a voluntary scheme and would not work without all bars on board.

Disorder-related crime has dropped since a liquor ban was introduced in central Rotorua at the end of 2003 but police say there is room for more improvement.

About 70 per cent of crimes in Rotorua are related to alcohol. In the early hours of the morning that increases to almost all crimes.

- DAILY POST (ROTORUA)