Sevens: New powers help police stamp out booze-fuelled disorder

Spectators play a drinking game during the Wellington Sevens. Photo / Getty Images

Police say new powers will help them quickly stamp out booze-fuelled disorder during the Wellington Sevens.

Inspector John Spence, operation commander for the event, said the new Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act placed greater responsibility on those serving alcohol to intervene when people became drunk.

Police could also issue infringement notices for a range of offences, and evict people from the stadium.

Mr Spence said as in previous years, security at the stadium will check fans are not smuggling alcohol into the event.

Wristbands allowing people to buy and drink alcohol will be removed from anyone found to be drunk.

An alcohol ban will be in force in the CBD, and police can issue spot $250 fines for breaches.

An extra 160 officers are working during the tournament.

Emergency medicine specialist Dr Paul Quigley said last year alcohol-related admissions to ED doubled during Sevens weekend. ``Look after yourself and your friends at all times and don't get dangerously drunk,'' he said.

Last year 12 people were arrested and 47 people were evicted from the stadium over the two-day event.

This year's Sevens tournament is held at Westpac Stadium on Friday and Saturday.