Police in Tairāwhiti and Hawke's Bay say a low number of drivers are over the alcohol limit.
Photo: RNZ / Alex Perrotet
Police stops in the Eastern District over the New Year period recorded 2067 breath tests.
Of that, 14 people were over the limit, with half appearing in court.
The highest recorded was more than four times the legal limit.
Sergeant Steve Murray said it is disappointing a small number of people are still not driving safely.
"The highest reading was 1034 micrograms/litre breath, which is really disappointing."
He said most of those over the limit were previously convicted drivers.
"And unfortunately, it just takes one person to make a bad decision, or a mistake, to have life changing impacts on the road," Murray said in a statement.
During a 90-minute driver fatigue stop just north of Lake Tutira, in northern Hawke's Bay, about 300 motorists were stopped, with most people travelling north for the holidays.
At this operation, one driver blew over the legal limit at 10.30am, believing he was sober enough from a drinking session the night before.
"People should never ever drive when impaired by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue," Murray said.
Murray said the most important message police want to convey is: "don't risk your life and that of others by driving while impaired in any way".
