Auckland operation nets drunk drivers

File photo / NZH

Police are disappointed with the number of first-time drink drivers after 77 people were caught over the limit during an Auckland-wide operation this weekend.

More than 21,000 drivers were breath tested in the operation, between Friday evening and early this morning, at checkpoints throughout Auckland city.

Auckland City Road Policing Manager Inspector Gavin Macdonald said it was concerning that a number of first-time offenders were among those caught driving over the legal limit.

Two male drivers netted in the operation were more than twice the limit while driving in a convoy full of young drunks early yesterday.

One was a disqualified driver and was arrested on the spot, and both vehicles were impounded.

Throughout the weekend 13 vehicles were impounded and 30 people had their licenses suspended after returning a reading of more than 650 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath.

Mr Macdonald warned police would ramp up their efforts to catch drunk drivers as Christmas approached.

- NZPA