Ohakune Police caught 11 drunk drivers at checkpoints over the weekend leaving the annual Ohakune Mountain Mardi Gras.
About 7000 people attended the Mardi Gras and there were no major incidents, but there were 12 arrests for liquor ban breach and disorderly behaviour.
Out of the nearly 5000 vehicles stopped at police checkpoints, 11 were caught driving drunk, seven of those being on Sunday.
"While the behaviour at Mardi Gras was positive, the next morning told a different story," central district road policing manager Inspector Dave White said.
"Seven drivers were caught before midday well over the legal limit. This is extremely disappointing and frustrating that despite all our warnings these people were willing to gamble with their life and the lives of others on the road.
"Some drivers are not appreciating how long alcohol stays in their system and some of the drivers caught drink driving had only stopped drinking some hours before being stopped at our checkpoints."
Six people had their licences suspended and 151 speed infringements were issued.
The operation included support from Horizons Council Road Safety Co-ordinators who worked with police on the Friday evening and Sunday morning. A road safety information stand was also set up in Ohakune providing road safety information.
"The majority of motorists are responsible, however some are still not getting the message. It's simple: don't drink and drive.
"If we can all play our part in keeping the roads safe we can ensure that we all get to our destinations safely and without harm," Mr White said.
Meanwhile a small group of people blocking off the mountain road on Saturday had no connection with local iwi Ngati Rangi.
Treaty manager Che Wilson said it was run by a woman representing a tribe from the Ureweras, protesting commercialism in the area. "It's not iwi-connected at all," Mr Wilson said.
The protest, which blocked off the road up to the ski field, had about three people, he said, and started before 7am. "They moved away by about 10.30."
Central districts communications manager Sara Stavropoulos said it was not a protest, and police moved the group on.