Since the law was adopted, nine deaths and 182 crashes have been attributed to cellphone use.
Police have launched a campaign to crack down on drivers using cellphones and Mr Kennedy said officers would be setting up visible roadside checkpoints as well as employing covert tactics, and operating out of the view of drivers, to identify offenders.
"[It's about the] safety of our people, our families.
"If [the call or text] could wait pre-cellphone days, chances are it can still wait."
More than 16,000 people have been fined for using their cellphones while driving in New Zealand since it became illegal on November 1, 2009.
In the past 11 months, 8357 infringement notices were issued, 647 more than during the legislation's first 12 months.
National road policing manager Paula Rose said the campaign was timed to remind drivers of the need to remain vigilant and not to slip back into the old habit of talking or texting on cellphones while driving.
"We are now two years down the track, we don't see any excuses for people still failing to comply with this legislation," she said.
Police would also be checking to ensure all vehicle occupants were wearing safety belts.
ADVICE
The police recommend drivers minimise the potential for distraction by switching phones off while driving, or pulling over to make or receive calls.
It is legal to use a mobile phone to make, receive or end a call when driving only if:
The driver does not have to hold or manipulate the phone to do so (ie completely voice activated) or
The mobile phone is securely mounted to the vehicle and the driver manipulates the phone infrequently and briefly.
The law does not permit texting.