If you're going away this New Year, plan for a massive police presence on the roads.
The speed tolerance has been reduced nationwide for a third time this year to help keep the road toll down this Christmas and New Year period.
The tolerance was officially lowered from 4pm on Christmas Eve and will remain at a 5km/h tolerance level until 6am on January 5. Speed cameras have also been calibrated to recognise the new limits.
"Expect to see highway patrol, booze bus, speed camera and other police out and about with your road safety in mind," said Hawke's Bay road policing manager Chris Wallace.
Between December 2009 and January 2010 there were five fatal crashes in Hawke's Bay and tragically eight people died as a result.
Nationally last year over the same period there were 13 deaths, making Hawke's Bay roads among the more dangerous.
Police will be targeting drink-drivers and looking out for drugged drivers to make the roads safer for everyone
"We are working towards reducing that figure this year. Speed and alcohol are the key focus areas, along with our usual pleas for drivers to exercise planning, patience and preparation.
"We want you to reach your destination easily and safely, and we know you want a hassle free trip, drive safe," said Mr Wallace.
Roadsafe Hawke's Bay have a simpler message for drivers this season, "just slow down".
"People try to push the limit and get to their destination 10 minutes earlier and exceed the speed limit," regional transport safety co-ordinator Linda Anderson said. "Just use common sense. Slow down."
Fatigue will be a big issue, with a lot of people driving long distances to see family after a full day at work. "Have a good sleep, make stops, get out of the car and walk around if you're feeling tired, share the driving. It's common sense," she said.
Police step up holiday patrols
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