Police are beefing up patrols and bag searches, and promising intoxicated rugby fans will not gain entry into this evening's Super 15 match at Carisbrook.
Senior Sergeant Phil McDouall, of South Dunedin, said more than 15,000 people were expected at the Highlanders-Crusaders game.
"We just want people to enjoy themselves and enjoy the game."
Police were adopting a zero-tolerance approach to people attempting to bring alcohol into the ground, and "people can expect to be stopped and have their bags searched".
Intoxicated fans would not be permitted into the ground, and anyone involved in disorder offences or pitch invasions could expect to appear in Dunedin District Court, he said.
