A German visitor in New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup has found himself with a suspended driver's licence and a hefty fine after being caught driving at excessive speed on the way to a game yesterday afternoon.
The driver was travelling through Mokau on State Highway 3 yesterday afternoon heading for the Ireland v USA game in New Plymouth and his fate serves as a reminder that international drivers are not exempt from the road rules of New Zealand.
A second British couple were also caught speeding at the same Mokau location in a camper van and a number of overseas visitors have been found not wearing seatbelts.
Senior Sergeant Kris Burbery, responsible for Highway Patrol in Central District said: "Road rules may vary across the world but it is the responsibility of visitors to make themselves aware of the New Zealand rules and abide by them. It would be a total tragedy if someone came all of this way for a memorable overseas experience only to lose their life or suffer serious injury."
The Traffic Alcohol Group has also operating in New Plymouth over the weekend. Considering the increase in traffic volume the team is generally pleased with the behaviour of drivers with drink drive levels no higher than normal.
One 40-year-old rugby fan on a US passport will be appearing in court in New Plymouth today charged with refusing to provide blood to Police. A second 30-year-old New Zealand resident is in custody facing charges of excess blood alcohol and failing to stop (at a checkpoint).
There was only one arrest in the City last night for assault which occurred when staff at a licensed premise tried to eject an intoxicated patron. He was a 23-year-old local man.
New Plymouth Area Commander Inspector Blair Telford said: "I am extremely pleased with the behaviour of everyone in the City for the rugby. The friendly atmosphere at the game continued throughout the night and it was great to see the USA and Irish fans sharing in the spirit of the occasion."
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