By Dave Goosselink
Holiday spots around the country are filling up as the New Year approaches.
In the South Island thousands of teens have gathered in Queenstown, Wanaka, and nearby Lake Hawea.... attracted by big name concerts and a party atmosphere.
But, the Lake Hawea Holiday Park is trying to ensure that partying doesn't ruin the holidays of family groups.
The Holiday Park is a popular spot over New Year, but has capped the number of young campers at 500, leaving only 400 spots for families.
And to ensure they can still enjoy a peaceful holiday, the camp's been split into two areas.
Teenagers and other young campers are confined to their own area away from the main site, helping limit any problems.
Richard Burdon of Lake Hawea Holiday Park says, “Everyone's registered in the park. The Police are supporting us. We've also got good security. Everyone's vehicles are registered in and out.”
Young camper Sarah Stephen says, “I think it's good cause like we're kind of separated. So we're not causing trouble with them and stuff.”
Young camper Lucy Mcknight says, “We're not allowed over there. They've got a nicer area with the lake actually, but it's just quiet over there. We have to turn our music off at 9, well down at 9, and then off at 11 pm.”
Some campers were feeling the hangover after last night's Shapeshifter concert at Lake Hawea
It was a warm-up to the pub's annual New Year's celebrations featuring the Feelers and the Jordan Luck band.
John Shea of Lake Hawea Hotel says, “Maybe the dollar is a bit tighter so we'll just box on and do our best and provide a good concert for those that turn up.”
The scenic town of Wanaka swelled in size by over five times, to around 25,000.
A 24 hour liquor ban is already in place here on Wanaka's lakefront, and 45 extra Police are being brought into the area as cover for New Year's festivities.
A fireworks display will be part of the Council's New Year celebrations tomorrow. Police hope they'll be the only ones they see.
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