Police say the small number of motorists caught drink-driving during a combined operation in Wellington and Counties-Manukau on Friday is a positive sign as Kiwis head into the summer holiday period.
Nearly 4000 drivers were stopped at check points in the two districts last night.
Of these, seven will be charged with drink driving after they were found to have more than 400 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath - three in Wellington and four in Counties-Manukau. A further six drivers - three in each district - were issued infringements under the new lowered adult alcohol limit of 250 to 400mcg.
Superintendent Steve Greally, National Manager Road Policing, said the low numbers were encouraging as New Zealand entered the summer holidays.
"Those are very small numbers and all in all we are very pleased that drivers appear to be doing the right thing. While it could always be better, that's a very good way to start the summer holiday period."
Mr Greally says with pre-Christmas work parties and other festivities in full swing, the operation is a timely reminder for people to look after themselves and their mates and make good choices while out socialising or heading home again.
"We will maintain our vigilance on the roads over the summer and we re-emphasise that if you are drinking, then don't drive. They are separate activities.
"Ideally we don’t want to catch or ticket anyone during any of these operations as that would show people are looking out for each other and making good choices around alcohol.
"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 someone a loved one will not be coming home.
“That’s why 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 communities safe," Mr Greally says.
Counties-Manukau Road Policing Manager Inspector Alison Brand also welcomed the low numbers caught drink-driving.
“While it is disappointing to have anyone fail breath screening tests, Police want to congratulate the majority of drivers who have planned ahead to ensure they and their family got home safely.”
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Media contact: Martin Kay, 021 924 805