Revellers across Newcastle and the Hunter region have been commended by police for their overwhelmingly positive conduct during New Year's Eve celebrations, marking a peaceful start to 2026.
A Night of High-Visibility Policing
Authorities launched a significant, high-visibility enforcement operation for December 31, deploying a wide range of specialist units to ensure public safety. Uniformed general duties officers were supported by highway patrol, the transport command, the public order and riot squad, the operations support group, licensing police, mounted and dog units, water police, and PolAir. This coordinated effort represented one of the largest policing operations of the year across the state.
Contrast with Sydney's Celebrations
While the Hunter region enjoyed a largely incident-free night, the story was different in Sydney. Police in the harbour city reported more than 38 arrests. These included over nine in the Sydney CBD and foreshore areas alone for offences such as assaults, affray, assaulting police, and offensive conduct.
Central Metropolitan Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna, acknowledged that most people in Sydney did the right thing. "Sydney welcomed in 2026 with iconic fireworks and we saw people come together after a heartbreaking month. Most revellers enjoyed a safe and trouble-free night," he said. However, he noted police were kept busy by a minority, particularly due to illegal fireworks which resulted in several injuries.
Hunter's Positive Report Card
Back in the Hunter, the feedback from police was notably positive. Lake Macquarie Inspector Anita Kruse reported that crowds were well-behaved and that there were no issues at licensed premises. "It was very good," Inspector Kruse summarised.
Across the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter, and Port Stephens local area commands, no major incidents were reported. Police did receive some noise complaints and reports of illegal fireworks, but these were minor issues in an otherwise smooth-running celebration.
The successful night was attributed to the combined efforts of the community and the extensive police presence, which aimed to ensure everyone could celebrate safely and return home without incident.
