600 dodgy drivers caught

Photo / Doug Sherring

Police using video cameras have busted hundreds of dangerous drivers at busy intersections in central Auckland.

Almost 600 motorists have been fined in the past 10 weeks in a blitz to counter drivers running red lights, using cellphones, and not wearing seatbelts.

Offenders were find $80 for using a cellphone and $150 for other offences. The fines issued total $85,960.

The campaign is a joint police and Auckland City Council initiative.

Police selected 10 intersections with high crash rates but won't release a full list of locations.

Drivers who break the law are sent fines in the mail after being identified by their registration plates.

Police say using a video camera is safer for officers than pulling cars over, and means fewer hold-ups for other drivers on Auckland's busy roads.

The blitz, called Project Focus, ends on Wednesday. It has been funded by the Auckland City Council, which has spent $14,000 on two cameras and police training.

Senior Sergeant Ross Barnaby said police and the council would assess the campaign and decide whether it will continue.

However, it would not lead to council staff carrying out the duties of police, because they do not have the legal power to do so, he said.

Council staff can issue infringement notices for no warrant of fitness or vehicle registration, and to motorists who drive in bus lanes.

Project Focus had received good feedback from motorists and pedestrians, said Barnaby.

Police filming at intersections are in uniform and wear high-visibility vests, so they can be clearly seen by drivers.

On Friday, the Herald on Sunday watched the operation in action at the intersection of Symonds St and Karangahape Rd.

In 20 minutes police identifed two drivers who had run red lights and several others who may be fined for dangerous driving.

Road safety group RoadSafe Auckland said intersection safety was one of the leading crash issues for the city.

"RoadSafe Auckland supports police and council efforts at raising people's awareness of intersection safety at high-risk sites," said spokeswoman Sharon Hunter.