The behaviour was an improvement from last year when two brawls disrupted the celebrations.

However, police were concerned with the number of incidents involving under-age drinking and the consumption of alcohol in alcohol-free zones around the CBD.

Police confiscated and destroyed an estimated $700 worth of alcohol from minors and adults breaching alcohol-free zone regulations. Cigarette and cigarette products were also seized from a number of young persons.

While crowd numbers were down significantly from last year, Acting Inspector Walkowiak said it was a pleasure to see families sitting in Curtis Park enjoying the jazz music prior to the fireworks. 

“The rain was a dampener for the fireworks display, but I am fairly sure the farmers were celebrating,” he said.

Acting Inspector Walkowiak said police were tasked to ensure the safety of the community by a zero tolerance to instances of alcohol-related crime and antisocial behaviour and worked to ensure compliance by licensed premises.

“This involved regular patrols around licensed premises and surrounding parklands prior to the New Year's Eve fireworks display looking for secondary supply of alcohol to minors,” he said.

There were two arrests at hotels on the night.

A 25-year-old man was arrested following an incident outside a licensed premises in Marsh Street, Armidale. He was issued with a $550 infringement notice for re-enter the vicinity following a move on direction.

A 20-year-old woman was arrested following another incident outside a licensed premises in Marsh Street, Armidale. She was issued with a $1100 infringement notice for continuing intoxicated behaviour after move-on direction.    

Police are continuing to investigate following a search of a young person which resulted in a knife being located.