63 arrests at New Year's Eve riot

Camp staff and police have been blamed for inflaming the massive New Year's Eve riot in Gisborne which ended in 63 arrests and 83 people being injured.

The large-scale disorder broke out across two campgrounds being used for the BW Summer Festival.

Police battled with the drunken mobs for three hours.

Officers were pelted with cans and other objects, vehicles were overturned, fights broke out, and several fires were lit.

"It was pure luck that someone didn't lose their life," said Tairawhiti area commander Inspector Sam Aberahama.

Videos have started to emerge that show the extent of the carnage.

Beer cans and other missiles are seen being thrown between groups across two campsites.

Festival goers can be seen sheltering under air mattresses to protect themselves.

One eyewitness took to online social forum Reddit to hit out at camp staff and police for their role in the escalating drama.

The poster, Heavy--Metal--Viking said small fires started getting lit at around 4pm and were dealt with by staff.

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63 arrests at New Year's Eve riot