CRACKDOWN: Twelve extra police officers were on duty in Bridge St over the weekend.

Dozens of people were arrested in central Nelson at the weekend as part of a police crack-down to clean up Bridge St.

Nelson Bays Area Commander Inspector Steve Greally said 34 people aged between 18 and 40, mainly males, were arrested - 20 for drunken disorder behaviour and 14 for liquor ban breaches on Bridge St and in licensed premises

One person was arrested for a minor assault.

Action would be taken against the licensed premises after four people were arrested in bars, Inspector Greally said.

''The general problem is the New Zealand drinking culture, but we can address other problems also such as licensee responsibilities and other areas around town.''

He had concerns about a lack of street lighting and conditions in certain city areas that were conducive to anti-social behaviour when people were drinking alcohol late at night.

For example, he said, there were 14 people arrested for drunken behaviour and liquor ban breaches at Buxton Square, including three females aged under 20.

Inspector Greally planned to meet with Nelson City Council councillor Ruth Copeland to establish a relationship with council to improve Bridge Street conditions.

''We are looking to work with council and any other social and community organisations to make Bridge Street better,'' he said.

The greater police focus meant another dozen police staff were taken from working in other areas to cover Bridge Street and the central city from 10pm to 4am at the weekend.

''About a dozen more staff in various roles are bought into this area to fix the problems.'' he said.

''Our focus is on preventing crime happening and preventing victimisation. Bridge Street was a safer place by 3.30am."