Police stop thousands in RWC drink driving blitz

Police have stopped 4,300 people in West Auckland over the last three days. Photo / File

Thousands of motorists in West Auckland were breath-tested for alcohol over the weekend as part of a police blitz to make sure people are not drink-driving during the Rugby World Cup.

More than 4300 people were stopped at checkpoints in and around Henderson and New Lynn on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights to check their alcohol levels.

A total of 43 drivers were found to be over the limit.

Of those people, 20 drivers were over the new lower limit of 250mcg with recorded levels between 250 - 400mcg.

While 23 drivers were discovered to be more than 400mcg over the limit and were now facing criminal charges in relation to driving with excess breath alcohol.

Road policing manager for Waitemata Police, Inspector Trevor Beggs, warned there would be a greater police presence on the roads over the next few months, as Rugby World Cup fever and celebrations continue.

He called on people to be responsible while drinking and encouraged fans to avoid driving altogether even if they'd had only a little alcohol.

"If you're having a big night out, getting home late and you've got work in the morning, then take a taxi or get the bus," Mr Beggs said.

"We'll be out and about and drivers can expect to be stopped anywhere at any time."