Take notes, students - police say they're here to help you stay out of A&E during university Orientation Week.
In a statement on Tuesday, officers shared their top tips to avoiding alcohol poisoning, morning-after regrets - and staying out of the cells for drunk and disorderly behaviour.
So if you want to party like the police (and avoid a visit from them), remember to:
- Look out for your friends – if you arrive together at an event, make a plan to leave together
- Have a glass of water or other beverage between alcoholic drinks - don't overdo it
- Make sure you eat some food if you are drinking
- Keep an eye on those drinks and your bag or wallet, or let your friends mind your gear if you need to go the toilet
- Have a designated driver, or put aside money for a taxi or bus
- If you plan to walk late at night, walk in pairs or groups. Either way, have a plan for getting home safely
- Make sure your phone is fully charged and keep it safe, so you can use it to get home.
Dunedin
"Have a good think about what you are doing. If you think you may do something that would embarrass your parents, grandparents or someone you respect, with antisocial antics, then perhaps it's not the best decision," Community Prevention Manager for Dunedin, Senior Sergeant Craig Dinnissen says.
"Look after your mates, flatmates, and others in general."
Hamilton
"It's also important to note that student flats near Waikato University are popular and lucrative for burglars who love to steal laptops, phones and other expensive items that students tend to buy at the beginning of a new year," Area Commander for Hamilton City Inspector Andrea McBeth warns.
"If you are in a flat, have a meeting with your flatmates, talk about how many people have keys and the best way to keep it secure."
Palmerston North
"Whether students are studying in their home town or they have moved away from home, we want them to remember that police are always here to help if they have concerns about their safety or someone else's," says Palmerston North Community Constable Roz Humphrey.
Christchurch
"Canterbury Police will have extra high visibility policing happening around known student locations and entertainment areas in Christchurch, with the aim of keeping people safe this week and weekend," says Area Community Services Manager, Senior Sergeant Roy Appley from Christchurch.
According to Senior Sergeant Dean Harker, "there are not many problems with students from Lincoln University generally but police has a presence at some campus events currently - to show we're around and approachable."
If you are throwing a shindig to celebrate the festivities, police suggest visiting https://goodone.org.nz.
