Record low road toll for January

File Photo / NZ Herald

A record low January road toll has been lauded by police as a sign their road safety messages are getting through to New Zealanders.

The 27 fatal crashes last month was the lowest total since records began in 1965 - 11 fewer than last year's total of 38 fatalities.

It marked the first time the January road toll has dipped into the twenties since 2000, when 28 people died.

Police Superintendent Paula Rose said though every crash death is a tragedy, the figures are an encouraging sign.

"The loss of any life is unacceptable to me and despite this outcome I can never forget the 27 who are not with us. But all the same, it is great to see that the number of families whose holidays were completely ruined is down on previous years, in fact the best we have ever had."

The figures could show New Zealand drivers are taking heed of police road safety advice, said Ms Rose.

"I have had so many people tell me over the last few weeks that they feel safer on the roads and that people seem more attentive to their driving and more aware of what is happening around them."

New Zealand Transport Agency spokesman Andy Knackstedt also tributed the low January road toll.

But more work needs to be done to ensure New Zealand roads are safe, he said.

"No road death is inevitable. Nobody deserves to lose their life on the road, whether they are at fault, or the innocent victim of another's error.

"Motorists can continue to play their part by recognising how much attention great driving really needs and making sure they only drive when alert and sober."