Motorists praised after drink-driving sting

Officers were out in force in Wellington and Counties-Manukau last night, stopping almost 4000 drivers across the two areas. Photo / File

Police are praising motorists in Wellington and South Auckland after a drink-driving sting nabbed only a small number of people over the limit.

Officers were out in force in Wellington and Counties-Manukau last night, stopping almost 4000 drivers across the two areas.

Seven motorists will be charged with drink-driving after blowing over 400mcg of alcohol in a litre of breath. Three of those were in Wellington and four in Counties-Manukau, police say.

Another six drivers -- three in each district -- were given infringement notices for being over the new lowered adult limit of 250mcg, but under 400mcg.

National road policing manager Steve Greally was encouraged by the low numbers as New Zealand approaches the holiday season.

"Those are very small numbers and all in all we are very pleased that drivers appear to be doing the right thing.

"While it could always be better, that's a very good way to start the summer holiday period."

Greally said with Christmas-party season in full swing, people should look after themselves and their friends and make the right choice when it came to getting home.

"We will maintain our vigilance on the roads over the summer and we re-emphasise that if you are drinking, don't drive. They are separate activities.

"Ideally, we don't want to catch or ticket anyone during any of these operations as that would show people are looking out for each other and making good choices around alcohol," Mr Greally said.

"We want everyone to enjoy themselves this Christmas, but to do it safely so that they are around to enjoy many more.

"The last thing police want to be doing is knocking on someone's door to tell someone a loved one will not be coming home.

"That's why people can expect to see police out and about and highly visible throughout the rest of the summer period, with the aim of keeping our roads and communities safe."

Counties-Manukau road policing manager Inspector Alison Brand also welcomed the low numbers.

"Although it is disappointing to have anyone fail breath-screening tests, police want to congratulate the majority of drivers who have planned ahead to ensure they and their family got home safely."