As young Central Otago party-goers prepare to descend on various holiday destinations this New Year's Eve, one group will be working hard to keep them safe.

Red Frogs, a non-profit support programme for young people aged 15 to 25, will be on hand across Queenstown, Wanaka, Kaiteriteri and Nelson.

The organisation’s aim is to provide early intervention strategies that reduce the risk of harm.

It includes being a positive peer presence in alcohol-fuelled environments where young people gather, educating young people on safe partying behaviours, while also promoting and providing alcohol-free and/or diversionary activities that engage young people in those environments.

Red Frogs NZ director Ray Thomson said some parents can feel nervous about their child being away for an extended period of time.

“It may be the first time their child has gone on holidays with their friends and without parental supervision. This is why the Red Frogs crew are here; to provide tips for parents to encourage safe celebrations and to be a positive peer presence at New Years’ locations.”

Red Frogs started in Australia in 1997 when founder Andy Gourley hit Schoolies Week on the Gold Coast with his mates. 

He realised the need for a designated sober person at the massive drinking parties, an initiative that was initially supported by 17 volunteers and now has 3649.

Handing out red frog lollies is how the concept got its name.

Pancakes will be on the menu thanks to Red Frogs. PHOTO: Red Frogs NZ

By 2008, Red Frogs had expanded into New Zealand and now has seven locations - Central Otago, Dunedin, Christchurch, Nelson, Hamilton, Palmerston North and Auckland.

A chill out/safe zone is set up in the centre of each town during festivities with teams providing free pancakes, water and red frog lollies to people.

Medics are on hand to assess patrons who may be intoxicated, or requiring help.

To read more about the organisation, visit the Red Frogs NZ website.

Red Frogs’ top tips for party-goers:

• Never leave a mate behind. Always stay in groups of two or more and stay in well-lit areas.
• Never leave your drink unattended and never accept drinks from others.
• Ask 'are you ok' every day. The end of the year can be an emotionally stressful time, so make sure you are checking in with your friends every day.
• Charge your phone. Have a plan for if you get separated from your friends.
• Drink plenty of water and eat healthy meals.
• Know your boundaries and stick to them - don’t become somebody you’re not.
• Check-in with your parents throughout the week.
• Be careful what you post on social media. Once a photo is out there, it’s out there forever.
• Respect accommodation providers and their rules.
• Call 111 in an emergency.

Red Frogs’ top tips for parents:

• Talk to your teen about New Years’ and how they plan to celebrate. 
• Stock your teen with a heap of pre-made meals. 
• Do not provide your teen with any alcohol. 
• If your teen is over 18, encourage them to buy light beer, not full strength. 
• Make sure your teen is stocked with slabs of water. 
• Agree on check-in times and stay in touch during the week to make sure they are OK. 
• Remind them to always stay with their friends.
• Tell your teen to visit Red Frogs.
• Encourage them to call 111 in emergency situations, the official services are here to help.

This month Red Frogs NZ is also part of One Good Kiwi, a fundraising initiative that supports local charities.