An Auckland couple will appear in the Alexandra District Court next week on a series of assault charges after an incident at Paulina’s Bar and Restaurant on New Year’s Eve. 

Acting Sergeant Graham Perkins said the woman allegedly assaulted a female staff member several times, and when they were finally asked to leave, tried to come back in through the back door of the kitchen and try again.

The incident happened just after midnight when last drinks were called, and the couple were not happy they couldn’t get any more service. 

Acting Sgt Perkins said the male security guard was also allegedly assaulted and the police officer on duty was threatened with having his house burnt down.

The couple would be due to appear in court on January 15 on a total of five assault charges, and police thanked the locals for being supportive on the night.

Paulina’s owner Shane Hilton said the staff member who was pushed was outside having a break and because she was wearing black, the couple assumed she was part of the security team.

“It was disappointing that after they were asked to leave the assaults took place. It put a dampener on what was otherwise a successful night.

“Everyone was really enjoying themselves and then when police were called they took it a bit further after we tried to deal with them.”

Acting Sgt Perkins said there were few other incidents to report over the Christmas/New Year period other than lost property and complaints about vehicles.

“Everything has been running really well. The town has been chocka and food places have been well patronised,” he said.

Family harm incidents were also really low and there had been no other incidents of disorder reported.