Rotorua police are disappointed at what they are calling a "lack of judgment" shown by some from the city's hospitality industry after five people were arrested and charged at its awards night.
The bar was closed on Sunday an hour earlier than planned but not before security at the Rotorua Convention Centre called police as they "couldn't control the situation".
But Rotorua Hospitality Awards event manager Vanessa Wallace said it was an internal family dispute that got out of hand and the awards were otherwise a huge success.
Rotorua police Inspector Ed Van Den Broek said double the number would have been arrested had police had the manpower.
"We were called just on 11pm by security who couldn't handle the situation.
"I don't know what was going on through these people's minds. They didn't show any good judgement."
He said when police arrived they found many heavily intoxicated people and one person had been assaulted.
"While the police were investigating that matter several drunken guests tried to interfere with the investigation and became obstructive and abusive towards police. Despite being warned to remove themselves they failed to do so."
Five people were arrested and charged. Charges range from disorderly behaviour, assault and failing to comply with police direction.
A similar number were warned at the scene for their behaviour, Mr Van Den Broek said.
"It appears intoxication is yet again a driver in violence and disorder. This could have been easily prevented if people showed better judgement with their alcohol intake.
"We have better things to do with our time than having to sort out drunken incidents like this involving adults who should know better."
Miss Wallace said three of the arrests were due to a family dispute.
"It was a controlled drinking environment. We're well aware of host responsibility and liquor licensing. The bar was closed an hour early because we felt people were getting a bit happy. It wasn't a bar brawl, it was hospo people who were letting their hair down and having fun."
Miss Wallace said overall it was a fabulous event.
"It was just a shame there was an internal family matter that got out of hand but we won't let this deter us from future events."
Sharon Wallace, another of the organisers, said she was saddened one dispute marred the event.
She said they would be looking at making changes to next year's event, including not having an open bar.
The five people charged are due to appear in the Rotorua District Court on Thursday.