Southern District Police are reminding motorists they will see police anytime, anywhere and in any weather this summer, as the roads get busier with more people visiting New Zealand and travelling to see loved ones.

Alcohol breath screening tests will be required of all drivers, particularly in the lead-up to the festive season and New Year’s Eve.

On a recent weekend more than 5,000 breath tests were completed during 13 alcohol checkpoints in Alexandra, Roxburgh, Wānaka and Queenstown.

More than 200 drivers had consumed alcohol, and 22 people were processed for driving with excess breath alcohol and will face charges.

Three drivers had their licences suspended for very high alcohol levels. 

Southern District Road Policing Manager Inspector Sarah Thorn is urging all motorists to take responsibility in keeping the roads safe.

“Summer is a busy time on the roads, and in people’s calendars, with lots of people moving about the district, and plenty of events where alcohol is present,” she said.

“We need people to remember the four main things you can do to keep yourself safe on the roads. 

“Make sure everyone’s buckled up, put distractions away, keep your speed in check, and please – if you are impaired, by alcohol, drugs or fatigue, don’t get behind the wheel. 

“It’s that simple. Arrange another way home and go and collect your vehicle the next day.

“A minor inconvenience is a far better option than being involved in a serious crash.”

Inspector Thorn said motorists will be breath tested any time they are stopped, as well as at dedicated checkpoints.

“Every drink-driver we take off the road reduces the potential for that driver to create a situation where someone’s loved one dies or receives serious injuries on our roads,” she said.

“We all need to do better and stop accepting people dying on our roads is what happens when driving. Let’s make it a summer to remember for all the right reasons.”

PHOTO: Wānaka App