While most drivers were well behaved over the Easter break there was a concerning number of speeding vehicles detected in the Central District.
"I want to thank all those drivers that adhered to the speed limits and took responsibility on the roads over the Easter break. However, there were a concerning number of motorists detected speeding, says Central District Road Policing Manager Inspector Dave White.
A motorist near Ohakune was detected by a highway patrol officer travelling at 137kph, while another motorist was detected by a speed camera van doing 132kph near Hunterville.
The fixed-wing aerial traffic patrol also picked up some erratic driving and worked with ground patrols to intercept these vehicles.
District highway patrol officers issued 338 speeding infringements over the Easter holiday period.
"These speeds and the number of motorists breaking the posted speed limits are unacceptable. The message is not getting through to some motorists that speed can kill. It shouldn't take the death of loved ones to emphasise this."
While no one died on the roads in Central District there were some serious crashes which resulted in people being taken to hospital.
Over the Easter break checkpoints were setup at Woodville and Sanson. A combined total of 1,175 vehicles were stopped at these. Out of these vehicles just over 20 were given infringements for WOF and registration type offences.
"We received some positive feedback from the checkpoints about the visibility of our staff out on the roads reinforcing road safety. Lots of motorists also took advantage of the Ohakea driver reviver stand which is great to hear.
"We want you to get to your destination safely so plan ahead and leave a bit later to avoid traffic congestion at hotspots.
"Some of the areas where traffic becomes congested cross into Central and Wellington Districts. Leaving a bit later in the day can help you avoid the congestion coming into towns such as Otaki.
"It's better to get there late than not at all so drive to survive."
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.