Police Won't Tolerate Drunkenness In CBD | Canterbury News | Local News in Canterbury

Police say they will not tolerate drunkenness in earthquake central city bars this weekend.

Some bars will be open as parts of the cordoned off areas are opened.

 Civil Defence controller Darryl Griffin is calling on the public to show
constraint on Friday and Saturday night in the central city.

"I understand some people will want to have a few drinks this weekend after the intense week we've all had, however it needs to be constrained," he said.

Police have assured Civil Defence that drunkenness will not be tolerated either in the street or in the city's bars.

Several roads and intersections will remain closed due to the risk of building collapse.

The Hospitality Association of New Zealand has been asked to contact its Christchurch members to ensure they are fully aware of the implications of opening during a State of Emergency.

Griffin said bar staff will need to know what to do during an aftershock and how to safely evacuate the premises. He says those bars sited next to damaged buildings should give careful consideration to the damage music vibrations may cause.

Extra police will be patrolling the central city over the weekend and damaged buildings will be guarded.