More than 650 motorists were stopped and breath-tested on State Highway 2 at Woodville last Friday evening as part of a joint operation between police and Horizons Regional Council staff.
Eight Highway Patrol officers and local Woodville Police carried out the stops, with Horizons staff handing out driver information packs and bottled water.
Of the some 650 motorists stopped, four tested positive for alcohol, but on further testing they were under the 250mgs legal limit. Police also issued 10 infringement notices for vehicle offences and one stolen car was recovered.
"Horizons staff handed out 360 information packs as well as bottled water between 4pm and 6pm which was a pretty good effort considering we had to stop for half an hour or so while a heavy shower of rain passed over," said Debbie Webster, Horizons road safety co-ordinator.
"I'm very pleased with how the stop went and very grateful for the help from the Central Districts Road Policing team and local Woodville Police."
Most northbound motorists stopped were supportive of the exercise and while many were heading away for the Wellington Anniversary weekend break, including one motorist who had travelled from the West Coast of the South Island, those who talked to the Dannevirke News said they were happy to know police were out in force on our roads.
Safety tips for drivers embarking on a long journey:
* Get plenty of sleep before leaving to travel.
* Avoid setting out on a long journey after having worked a full day.
* Try not to drive when you would normally be asleep.
* Take regular breaks and if feeling sleepy then a short power nap of no more than 20 minutes is encouraged.
* Share the driving where possible.
* If you are taking any medications, check whether it causes drowsiness.
* Use the air conditioning (outside air flow) to keep you more alert.