Police will conduct a high-visibility operation on Thursday involving general duties officers, detectives, Target Action Group members, licensing staff, domestic violence operatives and highway patrol units across the city and wider region.

Newcastle City Police commander Acting Superintendent Tracy Chapman said Anzac Day was a national time of remembrance and should be observed appropriately.

"This day is about honouring the brave men and women who have served our country and paying tribute to those who died fighting for our freedom," she said.

"Like all major events, we want people to enjoy Anzac Day in a safe and secure environment, without the fear of being subjected to anti-social behaviour or alcohol-related crime."

Acting Superintendent Chapman said the timing of this year's Anzac Day - being on a Thursday of the school holidays soon after the Easter long-weekend - meant police expected a busy period on the region's roads.

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"Police will also be targeting drink-driving and conducting random breath tests throughout the local area," she said.

"Both marked and unmarked police vehicles will be patrolling all major roads and back streets, so if you take the risk and drink-drive, you will be caught.

"Plan how you're getting home, organise a designated driver or pre-arrange transport. We want everyone to get to and from commemorations safely."

There will be a one day break in double demerits on the state's roads from midnight tonight until they begin again for the Anzac Day period at 12.01am on Wednesday.

The Anzac Day double demerit period will continue into the weekend, finishing at 11.59pm on Sunday.

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