Whakatāne Police remind drivers to drive safely following traffic operation

Whakatāne Police are reminding motorists to drive safely after a traffic operation saw 55 infringement notices issued in four hours.

Police undertook the traffic operation between 6am and 10am this morning on State Highway 30. They targetted the roundabouts intersecting with Gateway Dr and Keepa Rd.

Eastern Bay of Plenty road policing manager Sergeant Ray Wylie said the campaign was a result of complaints from members of the public about poor driving in the area.

In total 55 infringement notices were issued for a number of offences including failing to drive within own lane through a roundabout, entering a blocked roundabout and failing to give way on a roundabout.

Nine of the drivers were identified using a cell phone while driving on State Highway 30.

Police were disappointed that a number of drivers diverted through the Hub onto State Highway 30 creating a bottleneck and causing traffic delays into Whakatāne.

"Police are committed to reducing death and injury on our roads but we cannot do it alone," Wylie said.

"We need to work together — please take responsibility for your driving and reduce the risk to yourselves and others.

"Our message to all road users is clear: Don't drive distracted, stay within your own lane, buckle up, watch your speed, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol."