Wairarapa police are boosting the number of frontline officers on duty in anticipation of a national gang convention this weekend.
Area Commander Inspector Scott Miller said police were aware of a Killer Beez gathering in Masterton and expected an influx of at least 100 patched members and gang associates.
Miller said the public should expect a heavy road policing presence, with all available district road policing staff called in.
“We had about 30 patched members come in on bikes on Thursday, and we’re expecting more from the South and North Islands.
“There will likely be a lot of patched Killer Beez on bikes cruising around town this weekend.”
Police believe the gathering will be confined to one property that was away from the public, but officers were prepared for any movements in the central business district, Miller said.
Police will also be on the ground at Tauherenikau’s three-day 121 Festival.
Miller said the music event, last held in 2020, was one of the best run festivals he has seen, with attendees generally well-behaved and organisers ensuring good security and plenty of medical expertise.
“We don’t turn a blind eye, but we take more of a health-based approach.”
Being a music festival. I hope they adhere to all the rules. Rather than going there to see the Police. 👮♀️👮♂️