Road safety charity Brake is urging motorists to ensure both they and their vehicles are fit for the road as thousands prepare to travel for Christmas and the summer holidays.

With 269 people killed on New Zealand roads so far this year, including 13 this month, the charity says drivers must do everything they can to prevent further tragedy over the busy holiday period.

The call comes as roadside drug testing rolled out in Wellington earlier this week, a move Brake strongly supported.

The organisation is reminding drivers that being “fit to drive” means avoiding alcohol and drugs entirely, and being aware that some prescription and over‑the‑counter medications can also cause impairment.

Brake is also highlighting the importance of basic vehicle checks before setting out.

Drivers are urged to check tyre pressure and tread depth, oil and water levels, windscreen wipers, and lights and indicators to ensure their vehicle is safe for long summer trips.

New Zealand director Caroline Perry said the holiday season is one of the riskiest times of the year.

“Already this year 269 families have been given the devastating news that a loved one won’t be coming home.

“This time of year can be particularly risky because people are driving longer distances to be with family and friends, risking fatigue, distractions and speeding in order to get to their destination. But the consequence could be that you don’t get there at all,” she said.

Perry urged drivers to slow down, stay focused, avoid impairment, and take regular breaks.

Plan ahead and look out for locals

Holiday hotspots around the country typically see a surge in traffic, often in small towns and coastal communities.

Brake is advising motorists to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time, and avoid feeling rushed.

The charity is also calling on drivers to slow down around towns, beaches, and community areas, where more children and families are walking and biking over the summer.

“Whether you’re at home or away, people are more likely to be out and about on foot and bike at this time of year, including children, so we urge drivers to take extra care to look out for them, particularly around facilities like beaches and playgrounds,” Perry said.

Supporting families affected by crashes

Brake provides free support resources to people who have been bereaved in road crashes. To help fund this work, the charity is running its Tree of Remembrance appeal over the holiday season.

People can donate and tie a virtual yellow ribbon in memory of a loved one or in support of all those affected by road crashes: https://visufund.com/tree-of-remembrance.