Dance party 'danger' for teenagers

A dance party organised by two Rotorua DJs for teens these school holidays has sparked concern about drink-driving and bad behaviour despite carrying a drug and alcohol-free tag.
Tony Gallacher, also known as DJ Tone-Def and Ngarimu Voss, known as DJ Sanka, want to offer a safe alternative to the out-of-control teen parties often held in Rotorua and have done everything to ensure a safe and fun night.
Mr Gallacher said they had two meetings with Rotorua police who had been supportive. Earlier this week, however, Rotorua police area commander Inspector Bruce Horne said large teen parties were always a concern.
"It is extraordinarily difficult for any organiser to provide a safe and alcohol-free event of this sort when large numbers of young people are attending," he said.
"Our key concern around any large party is the potential for young people to consume large quantities of alcohol, before, during and after the event."
Mr Horne said when young people consumed large amounts of alcohol they were more likely to either commit a crime or to become a victim of crime.
"Young women are particularly vulnerable as they are often unable to make good decisions about keeping themselves safe when intoxicated."
The Rotorua DJs told The Daily Post they had been trying to organise safe dance parties for Rotorua teenagers for six months but had only just secured a venue.
They said safe teen parties didn't happen in Rotorua and they hoped their Sensation Dance Party on April 18 would be a success so they could hold regular events.
The location of the party was being kept a secret to keep trouble-makers and gate-crashers away. Doors for the R16 event would open at 6pm and close at 11pm and Mr Gallacher said there would be a large security presence.
Anyone caught with drugs or alcohol or exhibiting any intimidating behaviour would be made to leave.
"Food and non-alcoholic drinks will be available and we will also have a paramedic on-site."
Mr Gallacher said if there was enough demand, they would consider organising transport to and from the event.
"We don't want people to drink and drive. We want to create a safe and controlled environment where teenagers can have a good time."
He said parties like this were already being held in Hamilton and Tauranga and drew a crowd of Rotorua teenagers.
"There is nothing like this being held in Rotorua. Hopefully this type of event would prevent teens from drink-driving."
Mr Voss said having these parties for teens would also mean parents wouldn't have to worry about teenagers going out-of-town to attend dance parties.