Fears of carnage in memory of social media stuntman and comedian Johnny Danger have led police to ban the Whangaparaoa Crate Day.
Crate Day, which first began as a radio station stunt, has become an annual drinking event to celebrate the first Saturday of December and summer.
- Popular New Zealand Instagram comedian Johnny Danger dies in motorcycle crash - report
- Johnny Danger leaves behind legacy of wild online videos
- Johnny Danger receives posthumous Social Media Award
But police are concerned that the day may be used to commemorate Johnny 'Danger' Bennett, who died in a motorbike crash on ANZAC day this year.
As a result, the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board have banned alcohol at all Hibiscus Coast beaches and nearby reserves from Waiwera to Arkles Bay.
A similar ban took place last year after carnage in 2016 which saw 29 arrests for assault, fighting in a public place and disorderly behaviour at Stanmore Bay.
Area Commander Waitemata north Bruce O'Brien said it was hard to know what people would do after Danger's death.
"If friends want to celebrate his life on Crate Day, they can do, but they just can't use the beaches, because a liquor ban will be enforced," he told Stuff. "There's no reason they can't host an event at someone's home or private residence responsibly".
Police acknowledge drinkers could just change the date, but they would respond if that occurred.
Newshub.
