7 people killed on our roads this holiday season is 7 too many says Assistant Commissioner Dave Cliff.
"While I'm pleased we are nowhere near the 2011/2012 figure of 19 deaths, we still have too many grieving families whose holiday has been shattered by road trauma.
"I am also very mindful that victims from this holiday period include a four-year-old girl and 11-month-old baby. No family should have to endure this kind of loss.
"I take some comfort from the fact that since we launched our Safer Summer campaign we have achieved the lowest number of December deaths since 1965 with 23 fatalities.
"Nevertheless the fact remains that we wouldn't tolerate such fatality numbers for any other reason.
"This is why police and our road safety partners will be keenly focussed in 2014 on preventing as many crashes, deaths and injuries as possible on our roads.
"With one of the busiest travelling weekends of the year ahead of us I urge all road users to play their part by keeping their speed down, avoiding alcohol and ensuring everyone in their vehicle is using the appropriate restraints.
"Get home safely so you and your loved ones don't start 2014 with an avoidable tragedy."
END
The holiday period ran from 4pm, 24th December to 6am, Friday 3rd January.
Assistant Commissioner Cliff is available for interview between 3-4pm today.
Historic holiday period roll tolls:
2013/14: 7
2012/13: 6
2011/12: 19
2010/11: 12
2009/10: 13
2008/09: 25
Highest:
1972/73: 37
Media please note that speed infringement statistics for those over the 4kmh tolerance will not be available until late January.
Media contact:
Grant Ogilvie: 04 474 9476, 021 191 0005