'If you're going to drink, don't drive'

File photo / NZ Herald

Lower legal alcohol limits will mean safer journeys for all New Zealanders this summer, the New Zealand Transport Agency says.

Under legislation passed earlier this year, from tomorrow (December 1) the legal alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 years and over will be lowered from 80 to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, or 400 to 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath.

The alcohol limit for drivers under the age of 20 will remain at zero.

The lower alcohol limit has been welcomed by a clear majority of New Zealanders who understand that it will save lives and prevent serious injuries caused by drunk drivers, New Zealand Transport Agency road safety director Ernst Zollner said.

"Drink driving inflicts a huge amount of pain and suffering on New Zealand families and communities, and this change sends a very clear message to those who would put others at risk by driving while affected by alcohol.

"If you're going to drink, don't drive, and if you're going to drive, don't drink."

He said this message was especially relevant as the country was heading into the holiday season.

"Together with other recent changes including zero alcohol limits for teens, alcohol interlocks and new penalties for serious and repeat drink-driving offenders, this measure will make New Zealand roads safer for everyone."

The New Zealand Transport Agency has begun a public information campaign to remind New Zealanders of the change.

This included television, radio and outdoor advertising, which was focused on the lower alcohol limits.

Under legislation passed this year, the legal alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 and over will be lowered from 80 to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, or 400 to 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath.

Drivers whose breath registers between 251 and 400mg of alcohol will receive a $200 fine, and those who have more booze on their breath will still face criminal sanctions.

The alcohol limit for drivers under the age of 20 will remain at zero.

Cliff said there would be no grace period.

In New Zealand there are an average of 61 fatalities, 244 serious injuries, and 761 minor injuries every year caused by drivers who have been drinking.