Police fine rugby league fans for dangerous convoy behaviour
Sunday 1 November 2026 · 4 outlets · 6 reports · updated In this story Phil Gillbanks
Tauranga police issued infringement notices to motorists in two convoys of over 200 vehicles. The Samoan and Tongan supporters were reported for blocking intersections and engaging in dangerous behaviour, such as waving flags from windows, during Saturday evening celebrations.
Key facts
4 facts
- Two convoys of at least 100 vehicles each travelled through Tauranga and Mount Maunganui on Saturday between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.
- Police issued infringement notices for noisy equipment, unsafe passenger positions, and failure to wear seatbelts.
- A $600 fine can be issued for operating a vehicle in a manner liable to cause annoyance.
- Tonga and Samoa face each other in the Rugby League World Cup in Sydney on Sunday night.
The full story
1 min read · 4 outlets
Police issued infringement notices to rugby league supporters following dangerous and nuisance behaviour in vehicle convoys through Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. The convoys, consisting of at least 100 vehicles each, travelled through the areas between 5.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday. Public complaints were received regarding vehicles blocking intersections, excessive horn use, loud stereos, and concerns for the safety of unrestrained children.
Inspector Phil Gillbanks, Tauranga Police Area Prevention Manager, observed several unsafe behaviours, including unrestrained young people leaning out of vehicle windows while waving large flags. Police issued fines for offences including operating a vehicle with noisy equipment, failing to wear a seatbelt, and permitting passengers to ride in dangerous positions. Gillbanks stated that "Allowing passengers to lean out of vehicle windows, ride unrestrained, or travel in unsafe positions creates a significant risk of serious injury or death".
Following the convoys, police conducted a targeted operation in Mount Maunganui focusing on aggressive acceleration and excessive vehicle noise along Main Street. This operation resulted in further infringement notices for driving and vehicle noise offences. Police warned that driving in a manner that causes unnecessary disturbance to the public is unacceptable and can result in a $600 fine.
The enforcement comes as Tonga and Samoa prepare to meet in the Rugby League World Cup in Sydney. The match is scheduled for Sunday night, kicking off at 10.05pm New Zealand time.
How it developed
- Sun 1 Nov, 7:17pmAuckland police have also urged fans to celebrate responsibly and keep celebrations away from open roads and intersections.
Where reports differ
- Reports vary on the total number of vehicles, with some stating at least 100 per convoy and others citing more than 200 vehicles in total.
Compiled from reports by Stuff, 1News, RNZ and NZ Herald.