“The plan increases the alcohol breath testing target from 3 million tests to 3.3 million tests per year and introduces a new target for at least 65% of alcohol breath tests to be undertaken during the [highest] and extreme alcohol risk times.
Brown said the country had an inconsistent record with breath tests.
Over the past 10 years, there were only two years in which police had conducted 3 million tests.
In some years there were less than half that number, he said.
“Our Government has also ringfenced $20 million to deliver and implement roadside drug testing in New Zealand and have set targets for police to undertake 50,000 oral fluid tests per year.”
The package also included targeting speed offences on open roads and high-risk locations, and performance-based funding to ensure targets were met.
Kirkpatrick said she had, like others in the community, lost friends to drink-driving.
“The effects are devastating and long-lasting.
“I am delighted that this crackdown comes to ensure people are safer on our roads.
“The ability to conduct more tests, and for both drink and drugs, will make a difference.
“If we save one life that’s great but I am sure we will save many more and this should absolutely be our focus.
“The new targets (include) testing, speed monitoring, texting, seat belts and commercial compliance and will be a relief for those who too often have become victims on our roads due to impaired driving by others,” she said.
The $1.3 billion Road Policing Investment Programme (2021-2027) agreement between the New Zealand Transport Agency and police is fully funded from the National Land Transport Fund.
