Police will continue to maintain a presence on Southern roads in a focused effort to keep all road-users safe following an “extremely busy” summer holiday period.

In a statement, Southern District Police said officers will continue to target times and locations they know are high risk.

They will also continue to undertake prevention and enforcement activities. 

“These include speed enforcement, breath alcohol testing, and operations around people using cellphones while driving, as well as checking that  everyone is wearing a seatbelt.”

Southern District Police also warned that drinking and driving cannot be mixed and said the behaviour of some individuals was disappointing.

On 8 January, a motorist was clocked at a speed well in excess of the maximum speed limit near Cromwell. They also blew more than double the alcohol limit and were found to be unlicensed.

“Having a motorist travelling at that speed, while twice over the legal limit is tantamount to a ticking timebomb to a catastrophic tragedy on our roads (sic),” Otago Lakes Central road policing manager senior sergeant Sarah Thorn said.

“I’m just glad that our increased presence and visibility on the roads  meant this driver was removed from the roads swiftly.”

Wānaka Police also reported last week they were still pulling people over on a daily basis who were over the limit.

“Don’t think we won’t stop you. Find another way home or, better still, don’t take your car to town or where you will be drinking at all,” Wānaka Police senior constable Bruce McLean said.

Sarah said she hoped the “continued vigilance and proactive approach” from police would act as a deterrent and reduce risks throughout the course of the summer.

PHOTO: Wānaka App