Police unveil breath testing device

Police have a new weapon in their battle to catch drunk drivers.

The new device is more accurate in detecting alcohol and it will be in new police vehicles.

"I want every police car to be a booze bus," said assistant commissioner Peter Marshall.

"These new breath screening devices not only allow us to detect more drink drivers but will also be an important tool in strengthening the crossover between drink drivers and other criminal activity."

More than 1000 drunk drivers are caught each year and police are running blitzes during the holiday season to catch people who "live dangerously".

Police cars will be driven with their lights on at all times over the holiday period to make them more conspicuous and remind drivers to be alert.

- NZPA