Despite the grim toll, it is an improvement on last year when 19 people died.
Eight died on North Island roads.
My family and I, like many others, headed away from Hawke's Bay over the festive period.
We decided to pack our bags and drive to Auckland last week to visit family rather than fly.
And, despite constant warnings to travellers, I was disappointed by standard of driving en route to the big smoke.
While driving at the speed limit it seemed as though we were constantly tailgated and even received a less-than-savoury hand gesture when one driver overtook us in a passing lane.
Our journey home was even more alarming.
Amidst the heavy wind and rain there appeared to be no concern for the conditions as some drivers ploughed on at breakneck speeds.
Ironically we would pull up behind those that overtook us moments later, despite their manic rush.
A little patience goes along way, particularly on our roads.
