Pregnant woman among drink-drivers

An "amazing" number of women were caught drink-driving last night in Manukau and Papakura - including a heavily pregnant woman and a young mother going home to breastfeed her baby.

Police pulled over 7524 cars at checkpoints in Manukau and Papakura overnight. In total, 81 drivers would be making court appearances, facing charges of excessive breath alcohol. Thirty-two of those caught were women, Inspector Heather Wells said.

"The number of women [caught] was just amazing. Years ago, it was just men were dumb enough to drink drive, but this appears to be changing," she said.

Twelve drivers chose to have a blood sample taken, she said. Police also arrested seven people for offences including possession of stolen vehicles and drugs, dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.

The number of young people caught - 14 were under 20 years old - indicated drink-driving was not just a problem with older drivers, Ms Wells said.

One 15-year-old, unlicensed driver blew 400 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, more than double the limit for a driver under 20.

Police were not surprised by the number of people they caught,

"Unfortunately, it's not unusual for our district. There is a drink problem out there and, despite our efforts, people are still drink driving," she said.

However, the problem could be easily stopped, Ms Wells said. Many of the people were coming from parties, where a quick word from friends or family members could have easily prevented fines, suspended licenses and court appearances.

"Everybody has got to stop these people from driving. It's an easy fix - and easiest by the person who is about to get behind the wheel.

Police planned to increase the number of checkpoints on the roads over the Christmas period, she said.

- NZPA