Motorists reminded of reduced speed tolerance from 4pm today

Motorists heading away on their Christmas Holidays today are reminded that a reduced 4km/h speed tolerance is in place from 4pm today, through until 7am, Monday 7 January.

Police will be out in force over the festive season and rigorously enforcing the reduced speed tolerance. Drink-driving, seatbelt wearing, driver distraction and fatigue are also a focus.

“The message is simple: stick to the speed limit, stay off the booze and make sure you get enough rest before heading away on your holiday to ensure a safe trip,” says Superintendent Carey Griffiths, National Manager Road Policing. “Also switch off or put away other distractions such as cellphones or smart devices so you won’t be tempted to use them while driving”.

“Driving is a skill that requires our full focus, as you literally have your own life and those of passengers and other road users in your hands. Already there have been a number of fatal crashes in the lead-up to the holidays that have left families and loved ones devastated. Let’s not have any more families’ lives ruined this Christmas.”

During the holiday break New Zealand Police will also be joining forces with their Australian counterparts in Operation Crossroads, a joint operation targeting the major causes of road deaths and injuries, including drink/drugged driving, speeding, traffic infringements and license offences.

This will see a range of tactics used, including the targeting of repeat traffic offenders, a focus on known hotspots, use of traffic speed analysers (including radars and speed cameras), and random roadside drink and drug testing.