Breath tests for students at school balls

Eastern Bay of Plenty police have volunteered their time to breathalise students at the doors of two college balls this weekend.

But if they get a positive reading they will not be taking action.

Youth Aid officer Sergeant Tom Brooks said police would be breath-testing students as a courtesy to the schools and it would be up to them to take any action they deemed necessary if students returned a positive roadside alcohol reading.

"We are not using evidential tests, but units that tell us whether alcohol has been consumed or not."

Whakatane High School and Kawerau College have their balls tonight with Opotiki and Edgecumbe's balls tomorrow.

"We intend to have a high police presence in and around the areas both nights but hopefully all the pre-ball preparation undertaken by school staff, students and police will ensure a safe night," Mr Brooks said.

Whakatane High School principal Malcolm Harison said a breathaliser would be available at the ball but used only to confirm any suspicions door staff had. "We will only use it as a back-up," Mr Harison said.

However, Opotiki College principal Maurie Abraham said all students and their partners would be breath-tested by police.

"We have a zero alcohol approach and anyone who returns a positive reading will be refused entry.

"Our school ball caters for year 11, 12 and 13 students and we don't want the younger ones being put in a situation where they have to make decisions they perhaps lack the maturity to."

Mr Abraham said Opotiki had not had any post-ball issues in the past 14 years which could be largely attributed to the work of Mr Brooks and his team. "If there are any gatherings planned at private homes after the ball they have to be small, supervised and registered with the school."

Both principals said students had been working hard decorating the school halls and were looking forward their big night out.

"At the back of everyone's mind is that they want students to be safe," Mr Brooks said.

"In today's environment it is not safe to have uncontrolled parties and there are also a number of predators out there who see school balls as an opportunity to take advantage."

He encouraged students to look after themselves and their friends and to make sure everyone got home safely.

"But bear in mind, if you choose to drink and drive or breach your licence conditions there is a 99 per cent chance you will be caught."