Road safety is a top priority for police in the Bay of Plenty this Easter, as the continuation of the summer weather is expected to attract large numbers of people to the area.
Last year was the first time since records began 57 years ago that no-one died on New Zealand roads, a moment in history that police would like to see repeated.
Bay of Plenty District road policing manager inspector Kevin Taylor said: "The Bay of Plenty is not only a great place to visit it is a thoroughfare for holidaymakers travelling across the North Island. All Bay of Plenty road policing staff will be out on the road network this Easter weekend as part of the national 'Operation Crossroads'.
"Patience is a virtue all drivers are strongly encouraged to embrace this weekend. The few seconds you save by driving too fast or overtaking in the wrong place could cost you and your family more than just time. If you encounter large numbers of vehicles travelling together, exercise that virtue and enjoy the drive."
The official holiday period begins at 4pm today and ends at 6am on Tuesday April 2.
Police will focus in particular on drink/drug driving, speed, fatigue, distractions and seatbelts.
"Our focus will be to get you to your destination safely, making sure you are spared from the trauma and heartbreak caused by road fatalities. We need every motorist on the road this Easter to do their bit to make sure this happens," said Inspector Taylor.
