POLICE have arrested more than 270 people in NSW on the first night targeting alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.

Last night and early today more than 1300 extra officers were deployed to licensed premises, transport hubs, roads, waterways and other hot spots as part of Operation Unite, a nationwide initiative.

A total of 273 people were arrested and charged with 480 offences, including assault, resisting arrest, affray, assaulting police and drug supply.

Police also issued 517 move-on directions, including 178 for intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Officers conducted almost 18,000 random breath tests across the state and 81 people were charged with drink-driving offences.