The number of blood samples analysed by police in the region has declined 32 per cent since 2013 - and a Rotorua barrister says it may be because more drink-drivers realise an extra blood test isn't going to get them out of trouble.
In the Bay of Plenty policing district, 458 blood samples were analysed in 2011. That number fell to 311 in 2013. Similar declines have occurred across all policing regions, police statistics show.
Rotorua barrister Brett Cooper has seen changes in attitudes, policing and drink- driving laws across 25 years of criminal law. "I think it's the case that more and more people are aware blood tests aren't in their favour.
Thirty years ago you wouldn't get tested, but now if you drive near a city you have to be able to pass a breath test."
Mr Cooper urged people to invest in breathalyser machines for personal use, considering there were up to 36,000 drink driving convictions some years. He originally paid more than $1700 for his own device, but said breathalysers now cost around $700 - a price which is "pretty light when you look at the value of your vehicle and victims' and people's families' lives."