Police are taking a firm approach to unsafe driving behaviour from travellers going near or far this Easter Weekend.

After a disappointing start to the year on our roads, there has been an improvement to date in rates of deaths and serious injuries over February and March, but Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing, says we can and must do much better.

It’s about drivers and road users making simple decisions to keep themselves and others safe or they can expect to be ticketed, he says.

“Our officers will be out patrolling roads throughout Aotearoa over Easter weekend and will follow through the appropriate enforcement action if drivers and riders are deemed to be risking the safety of themselves and others.

“It’s a serious stance we are taking to ensure we don’t see more lives lost on our roads.

Police will maintain a high level of visibility on our roads in order to prevent unsafe behaviours and enforce the law with a clear focus on reducing road trauma and the devastating effects it has on families. 

Superintendent Greally urges drivers to consider the safety of others and their own when getting behind the wheel.

“Those split-second decisions when driving can put a life in the balance that’s why it’s important not to overlook them whenever or wherever you’re travelling.

“It takes a second to either put your seatbelt on, share an Uber home or have a sober driver on hand, decide to leave that text or call alone, and slow down on any road.

Any of these will improve the chances of you arriving at your destination safely.”

It’s important to note, SH1 Brynderwyn Hills will temporarily re-open for the long weekend from 12.01 am on Thursday 28 March to 11.59pm on Tuesday 2 April, for travellers heading to or from Northland, before closing again till 13 May to allow the completion of essential cyclone recovery work.

NZ Transport Agency Road Safety Manager Fabian Marsh reminds drivers to use NZTA Waka Kotahi’s Easter Weekend Holiday Journey Planner, which provides travel time information and updates on any delays, roadworks, and road closures that all road users might find beneficial on their travels. 

He also urges drivers to reduce speed where temporary traffic management is in place.

“We want you to get to your friends and whānau safely.

“When you’re out on the roads this Easter, drive to the speed limit, don’t drink and drive, make sure you’re rested, and plan ahead.

“Drivers were also advised to undertake basic safety checks of their vehicle, to help ensure a smoother journey over Easter Weekend.”