Thousands expected at Battle of the Streets

There'll be a strong police presence in Paeroa today, as thousands arrive for the "Battle of the Streets".

The motorcycle races are seen as a chance to showcase the town as a family friendly location with 14,000 - 15,000 spectators expected to watch.

Acting Sergeant, Damion Rangitutia, says it's a big event, and officers want to see it run smoothly. "They'll be a strong police presence both in the surrounding areas and at the race track itself" he told Newstalk ZB.

He says the races usually go off without a fuss, and hopes fans will get into the spirit of the day without getting carried away.

"There's obviously a large motor racing fan network come along in their own cars" he said. "If they think about burning up the streets outside the racetrack they'll be dealt with by our road policing team."