New Zealand Police are urging all drivers to immediately slow down and use extra care after nine people were killed in crashes nationwide since Friday, April 10, with additional serious crashes reported in the same period.
Superintendent Steve Greally, director of road policing, said police are disheartened by the toll and called the recent deaths preventable. He said the country is just three and a half months into the year, but already too many families have suffered fatal and serious crashes, including those involving young people.
Greally cited dangerous weather in the North Island and told motorists to drive to conditions, slow down on wet roads, and avoid travel during severe weather if possible.
He warned that police will enforce road rules everywhere and at any time. Unsafe driving will not be tolerated.
Police repeat safety advice: do not drive if impaired by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, and stay focused at the wheel.
