\u201cKeep celebrations away from open roads and intersections. Flags can fly freely outside your vehicle, but all passengers must remain safely inside,\u201d said Superintendent Riki Whiu.<\/p>\n
\u201cAllowing passengers to lean out of vehicle windows, ride unrestrained, or travel in unsafe positions creates a significant risk of serious injury or death,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cDrivers are legally responsible for ensuring passengers are transported safely.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSimilarly, loud external stereo systems and excessive horn use can create unnecessary disturbance for the wider community and may result in infringement notices.\u201d<\/p>\n
Gillbanks said police welcomed celebrations of cultural heritage and sporting competition, but they had to be carried out \u201csafely and within the law\u201d.<\/p>\n
He warned that unsafe behaviour would \u201ccontinue to attract enforcement action\u201d.<\/p>\n
Following the parades, police carried out a separate operation in Mount Maunganui targeting motorists accelerating aggressively along Main Street, excessive vehicle noise and other poor driving behaviour.<\/p>\n
Further infringement notices were issued, including for driving and vehicle noise offences.<\/p>\n
Police said one offence detected was operating a vehicle in a manner liable to cause annoyance, which carries a $600 fine.<\/p>\n
The warning echoes a message from Auckland police urging fans to celebrate responsibly<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cKeep celebrations away from open roads and intersections. Flags can fly freely outside your vehicle, but all passengers must remain safely inside,\u201d said Superintendent Riki Whiu.<\/p>\n