A significant and highly visible police operation will blanket the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Port Stephens regions on New Year's Eve, as authorities prepare for thousands of revellers gathering to welcome 2026.
Multi-Faceted Police Presence for Public Safety
NSW Police have confirmed a major deployment for December 31, 2025, described as one of their largest annual operations. The strategy involves high-visibility patrols from day through to night, aimed squarely at keeping the community safe. General duties officers will be supported by a wide array of specialist units.
Highway patrol, the transport command, the public order and riot squad, the operations support group, and licensing police will all be on duty. The operation will also utilise mounted units, dog squads, water police, and the PolAir helicopter.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon emphasised that the mobile, high-visibility response would be evident at major events across the state, not just in Sydney. He stated the force's clear goal: "NSW Police want people to welcome in the New Year and have a safe night."
Event Details and Critical Public Advice
In Newcastle, the main 9pm fireworks display will be launched from the harbour, creating a 12-minute spectacle. The Newcastle Foreshore will be the central hub, featuring live music at The Station, multiple 'Eat Streets', a dedicated kids zone, three DJ stations, and picnic areas. A unique 'wish exchange' will allow people to share their resolutions for the new year.
Across Lake Macquarie, the community can enjoy two organised public fireworks displays at 9pm and midnight. Additional 9pm shows are scheduled for the Trinity Point precinct, the Royal Motor Yacht Club at Toronto, and the Wangi RSL Club.
Police have issued several important reminders for the public:
- Maritime safety is a priority, with water police patrolling to ensure vessel operators comply with laws on drink driving, safety equipment, and exclusion zones.
- Fireworks are illegal for the general public. Police stressed that a licence is required to buy and use them, warning that illegal fireworks can cause serious injury, property damage, and fires. They cited a blaze on the Central Coast last year sparked by unauthorised fireworks.
- A road safety operation is in force, with double demerit points applying until January 4, 2026. The message is clear: if you drink, have a Plan B.
Transport and Traffic Plans for a Smooth Night
Authorities are urging foreshore-bound revellers to leave cars at home due to expected significant traffic congestion. Key road closures include Hunter Street between Darby and Watt streets for the duration of the event.
Newcastle Transport has bolstered its services to help people move around:
- The light rail will run every seven-and-a-half minutes until midnight, then every 15 minutes until 1am.
- Bus routes 11, 13, and 14 will operate on a weekday timetable to ferry passengers in and out of the CBD.
- Ferry services have been extended to run until midnight.
With a comprehensive police plan and detailed event information, authorities are working to ensure a safe and celebratory start to 2026 for all attendees across the Hunter region.
