(File photo) Photo: 123rf.com
A large gang gathering in Hawke's Bay will be met with an increased police presence during the long weekend, police say.
Hawke's Bay Area Commander Lincoln Sycamore said officers would be very visible in central Hawke's Bay, where the gathering is scheduled to take place.
"While the gathering will take place over the weekend at a marae that is away from main roads, Police do expect some travel around Central Hawke's Bay by the gang members, particularly on the morning of Sunday 1 June," Sycamore said.
Sycamore said Police had made plans to minimise any disruption to residents and holidaymakers visiting the area for King's Birthday weekend.
"We have spoken to those organising the gathering and encourage all attendees to respect our local communities and not engage in any unsafe driving behaviour or unlawful activity," he said.
"If anyone does witness unsafe driving behaviour or unlawful activity, please report it immediately to 111."
Under laws introduced last year it is illegal for anyone to wear gang insignia in public, such as gang patches on clothing or vehicles.
Earlier this month, police said a number of arrests and vehicle impoundings followed gang insignia being displayed at a tangi in Hastings.
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