Police have issued infringement notices after two large rugby league supporter convoys travelled through Tauranga and Mount Maunganui on Sunday evening.

The convoys, involving supporters of Samoan and Tongan rugby league teams, each consisted of more than 100 vehicles and moved through various parts of the city between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Police area prevention manager Inspector Phil Gillbanks said members of the public complained about vehicles blocking intersections, excessive horn use, loud stereos, and raised road safety concerns, including reports of unrestrained children.

Police also observed several unsafe behaviours, including young people leaning out of vehicle windows while waving large flags, excessive noise from external stereo systems and unsafe passenger conduct.

Several drivers were stopped and spoken to by police, with infringement notices issued for offences including operating a vehicle with noisy equipment fitted, permitting or riding in a dangerous position on a vehicle, and failing to wear a seatbelt.

Gillbanks said police support people celebrating their culture, heritage and sporting achievements, but those celebrations must be carried out safely and within the law.

“Allowing passengers to lean out of vehicle windows, ride unrestrained, or travel in unsafe positions creates a significant risk of serious injury or death,” he said.

“Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring passengers are transported safely.”

Police also warned that loud external stereo systems and excessive horn use could result in enforcement action, while large flags extending from vehicle windows could obstruct visibility and distract other motorists.

Following the convoy activity, police conducted a targeted operation in Mount Maunganui focusing on poor driving behaviour, excessive vehicle noise and drivers accelerating aggressively along Main St.

Further infringement notices were issued for vehicle noise, driving behaviour and other traffic-related offences.

Police said one motorist was detected operating a vehicle in a manner liable to cause annoyance, an offence that carries a $600 infringement fee.

Gillbanks said road policing staff would continue monitoring similar gatherings and convoys, with offending potentially resulting in infringement notices, prosecution and other enforcement measures.

Police thanked the majority of supporters who celebrated responsibly and encouraged anyone planning future gatherings to do so with safety and consideration for other road users.