Police are hoping to keep a low profile as Wanganui turns into party central to see in the New Year in style tonight.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Kirby confirmed extra staff had been rostered on to monitor behaviour, but said police were taking a proactive approach to enable revellers to enjoy
a trouble-free celebration.
"We are hoping people have an enjoyable time seeing in the New Year and we are taking a proactive approach to ensure that happens. We have rostered on extra staff to monitor things and we will be there to step in where necessary," Mr Kirby said.
And there is plenty of entertaining action to watch in the River City tonight with many of the hot spots planning a party.
Caroline Celtic at the top of the Avenue features local entertainer Darren Wallace and owner Caroline Norton said an outside marquee would ensure ample room for revellers.
"We have Darren playing, lots of good food, lots of good people and laughter to see in the New Year," she said.
The Clarendon Hotel in Waverley hosts Wanganui band Drunk 'N' Blind until 1am, while all five Wanganui chartered clubs are also in party mode.
The Castlecliff Club is planning the ultimate beach party with Harmony Showdown entertaining, the Wanganui East Club employing Paradise until late, the Razza (RSA) hosting Ruakiwi Plus, the St John's Impulse and the Cosmopolitan Club will party to Flashback.
The Irish Bar at The Grand is hosting a DIY extravaganza where revellers can sing themselves into the New Year with Sheree and the entertainment team on the Karaoke machine, although owner Neville Gorrie said the sound of bagpipes will ring in the New Year.
Wanganui DJ Paul Berridge has returned from Sydney, bringing with him an interesting party option to cater for all ages.
Mr Berridge has bought together five DJs, including Sydney's Coogee Palace resident DJ Tito for his Sex in the City New Year's Eve Party at the Kingsgate Hotel.
The show will include funky music, sexy disco, house, oldskool, R&B classics and hip-hop among other popular styles.
Owner Tim Davies said Stellar will have its own New Year's Eve party under the best light show in town and live DJs.
"We will have drink specials and a bloody good time," Mr Davies said.
