Arrest made after out-of-control party

Police have made an arrest after fights broke out at an out-of-control party.

Detective Sergeant Staunton of the Rotorua CIB said police had "pieced together" what happened after two people were left with fractured skulls after a series of parties held on Pretoria St last Friday got out of hand.

He said the man arrested as part of the disorder had appeared in the Rotorua District Court charged with serious assault.

"It is alleged that this assault was retaliation for another party-goer being slashed with a broken bottle causing a
significant facial injury that required a large number of stitches.''

Mr Staunton said a number of people who were at the party had been interviewed but police still wanted to hear from anyone in the area who witnessed any assaults.

He said police also wanted to hear from anyone who had information about people who were armed with objects which were used as weapons.

"Enquiries to date have established that there is a strong culture amongst the late teens to early 20 year olds to attend themed parties advertised on Facebook,'' he said.

"Some of these parties have got out of control with a mixture youth, alcohol and overcrowding leading to these parties spilling out onto the street where fights break out. This has given just cause for police to close these parties down and then deal with the fall out.''

Mr Staunton said parents were encouraged to know where their teenagers were going and what their actual intentions were.

"Organisers of youth parties especially where a fee is paid and or alcohol is available for consumption should be
aware that offences are being committed against the Sale of Liquor Act 1989 and these persons maybe prosecuted or fined $40,000 per offence,'' he said.

"Police are available to provide advice to organisers and also want to know where and when these parties are in
advance so that there can be a preventative presence by police as opposed to enforcement.''

Anyone with information should contact Rotorua police on 07 349 9400. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.