Police in Wellington and Auckland will be out in strength tomorrow evening (Friday 11 December) as they patrol streets and bars as well as roads and highways with alcohol-focussed prevention activities.
“With pre-Christmas work parties and other festivities in full swing, it’s a good reminder that while we want people to have a good time, we also want them to get home safely,” says Acting National Manager Road Policing, Inspector Peter McKennie.
“Although it’s the time of year that many start letting their hair down, all too often Police see people who take it too far and make unsafe decisions.”
Mr McKennie says plans for the evening will include a range of prevention-focussed operations across the Wellington and greater-Auckland Police Districts. This will include random breath testing and alcohol checkpoints, as well as speed enforcement and foot patrols through bars, clubs and other popular social venues.
“Ideally we don’t want to catch or ticket anyone during any of these operations – which would indicate everyone is looking after themselves and their mates and making good choices, either while out socialising or when heading home again.
“That’s why we encourage anyone who is out socialising to make sure they have a safe plan for getting home, whether it be getting a ride with a sober driver, grabbing a taxi or arranging to stay with friends. Similarly, if you’re out drinking, please keep an eye out for yourself and your mates, so you don’t become a potential victim.”
In 2014, alcohol and drugs were a contributing factor in 62 fatal traffic crashes, 336 serious injury crashes and 784 minor injury crashes. These crashes resulted in 70 deaths, 422 serious injuries and 1,136 minor injuries.
Police will also continue to enforce the reduced 4km/h speed threshold that is in place until 31 January 2016.
This means anyone caught exceeding the posted speed limit by more than 4km/h should expect to be ticketed.
Police will also be focusing on those not wearing safety belts, using mobile phones while driving, licence breaches and vehicle defects.
“People can expect to see Police out and about and highly visible throughout the rest of the summer period with the aim of keeping our roads and our communities safe," Mr McKennie says.
“We want everyone to enjoy themselves this Christmas, but to do it safely so that they are around to enjoy many more. The last thing Police want to be doing is knocking on someone’s door to tell them a loved one will not be coming home.”
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Media Contact: Ross Henderson, ross.henderson@police.govt.nz or 04 470 7316.