More police on roads in lead up to Christmas

An increase of trucks on the roads delivering freight in time for Christmas has lead to the launch of a national police operation.

Operation Haumaru aims to reduce the risk of crashes during a time where there is an increased presence of heavy motor vehicles (HMV).

The police's commercial vehicle investigation unit will work with the New Zealand Transport Agency and HMV drivers and operators.

The operation intends to prevent and detect driver fatigue, impaired driving, vehicle defects, overloading and other safety issues.

During the operation there will be an increased police presence on roads across the country ,particularly at high-risk times and locations.

"We will also be conducting vehicle inspections of HMV to ensure they are fit for purpose on our roads," commercial vehicle investigation unit manager Inspector Bruce O'Brien said.