Stadiums on terror alert
Fans heading to the Warriors’ opening match of the season were greeted by police, security, and a maze of concrete barriers.
In the wake of the Christchurch terror attacks, additional security measures were taken at all major events, including sports stadiums, to ensure the safety of patrons and staff.
Fans entering the gates to Mt Smart have, for the past 25 years of Warriors football, strolled through the gates and walked side by side down the main driveway to the turnstiles.
However on Saturday, they were forced to navigate a series of concrete barriers that snaked all the way to the main carpark – a defence to potential low-tech terrorism.
Low-tech acts of terror can vary, but in recent years have often involved people driving trucks or heavy vehicles directly into crowds of people.
In July 2016, a truck was deliberately driven into crowds celebrating Bastille Day in France, killing 86 people and injuring more than 400. The attack was later claimed by Islamic State.
Mt Smart Stadium is controlled and operated by Auckland Stadiums – a division of Regional Facilities Auckland.
Security manager Glenn Simpson said the barriers were part of a wider increased security effort.
‘‘The safety of all patrons and staff is of the utmost importance, and we work diligently with police and our security providers to develop plans to ensure safety Warriors players huddle together to support victims of the Christchurch shootings, ahead of their clash with the Bulldogs in Auckland last week.
across our venues,’’ he said.
‘‘Security resources were increased at Mt Smart Stadium and tighter security measures were brought in for the game."
Across town, Eden Park will tonight play host to the Blues v Highlanders match and like Mt Smart, the ripple effects of Christchurch will be felt.
The stadium’s chief executive, Nick Sautner, said additional security measures could affect how long it takes patrons to get in and out of the venue.
‘‘Eden Park continues to liaise with New Zealand Police and emergency services as part of its standard operating procedures for event delivery,’’ Sautner said.
‘‘There will be a heightened police and security presence at Friday’s match; to assist with entry into the stadium fans are asked to keep bags to a minimum and their understanding is appreciated.’’
As for how long the added safety measures would be in place for, that was something that would continue to be discussed with police, he said.
It was a similar approach being adopted further south at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium, which will host tomorrow’s Hurricanes v Stormers clash.
The stadium has already staged two events since the Christchurch attacks, which both went off without a hitch.
Chief executive Shane Harmon said it was ‘‘too early’’ to say how long the additional security measures would be in place, but confirmed the heightened police presence would remain for the forseeable future at least.
The walkway to the stadium is above ground, so there was no need for anti-low-tech terror measures like concrete barriers and water drums, Harmon said.
‘‘Safety is our number one priority, and there will be changes in the way of additional security and bag checks,’’ he said. ‘‘We ask that people leave bags at home if possible. It’s also important however that people remember to come and enjoy the rugby.’’
‘‘There will be a heightened police and security presence at this Friday’s match’’ Eden Park chief executive, Nick Sautner, left