Central District Police want to remind motorists to always wear their seatbelts and drive to the conditions as people make travel plans for the approaching Labour weekend.
"Seatbelts are not accessories; they safe lives. Before you start your journey make sure everyone in your vehicle, especially children have their seatbelts on," says Central District Road Policing Manager Inspector Dave White.
On 1 November 2013 the mandatory use of child restraints in vehicles will be extended by two years — this means that all children will need to be correctly secured in an approved child restraint (this includes booster seats) until at least their seventh birthday.
There are added risks when driving on roads during peak holiday traffic and it's vital that motorists drive to the conditions and remain aware at all times.
"Our District has some of the most frequently used roads and highways in the North Island and during holiday season they can become congested and delays can be long. Making sure your vehicle is fit for the journey and listening to radio traffic updates before you embark could save you unwanted frustration in the long run.
"Police want you to get to your destination safely rather than not at all.
"Officers are out on the District's highways and roads everyday of the year keeping them safe. The majority of motorists are responsible road users but those who choose not to wear their seatbelts or drive dangerously can expect to be issued with an infringement notice."
For the duration of the official holiday period which runs from 4pm Friday, 25 October 2013 until 6am Tuesday, 29 October 2013 the speed limit tolerance is 4km for all permanent posted speed limits. This means that Police will take action where vehicle speeds are checked at more than 4km above the posted speed limit.
Police also remind motorists to; watch their speed and following distance, take a break if fatigue starts to set in, and never drink and drive.
"Motorists can help us keep the roads and highways safe by taking responsibility every time they get behind the wheel," says Mr White.
Report a bad driver
You can report dangerous or erratic driving by dialling *555 FREE from your mobile phone.
Planning your journey and traffic updates
If you want to know about potential delays before you hit the state highways visit onthemove.govt.nz. Through this NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) website you can sign up for free, customisable email alerts designed to inform you before your journey about notable road and driving conditions, incidents and roadwork's taking place on New Zealand’s state highways.
You can also visit www.highwayinfo.govt.nz for up-to-date information from the NZTA, or call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS for either the latest highway conditions or to report incidents or hazards on the state highways.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.
