Central Otago Police issued 165 bad driving infringements over Waitangi weekend.

Road policing teams dealt with many offending drivers, while managing heavy traffic in Central Otago over the long weekend.

Sergeant Regan Price said that a high number of driving infringements from Friday to Sunday was concerning.

“Police are disappointed they had to issue 165 speed and traffic infringements in the Central Otago area over three days. Lots of people were coming to the area, drawn to a number of events on during the weekend.

“It’s dangerous to speed or have bad driving behaviour at any time, and a busy public holiday only increases the risk someone could get hurt,” he said.

On Waitangi Day, Alexandra Police clocked a car travelling over 50km/h over the speed limit on Alexandra – Fruitlands Road.

Officers impounded the vehicle for 28 days, and the 26-year-old driver has been charged with driving a vehicle at a dangerous speed. He will appear in the Alexandra District Court on February 26.

Police at Ranfurly dealt with a vehicle crash where alcohol was suspected to be a factor. A 19-year-old has been charged with driving with excess breath alcohol and will appear in the Alexandra District court on February 26.

Meanwhile, the female motorcyclist from the St Bathans crash remains in hospital. Sgt Price said enquiries into that crash are continuing.

Police encourage safe driving at all times. This includes ensuring you are not impaired by fatigue, alcohol or drugs, that you are alert and free from distraction, driving at a safe speed within the speed limit and ensuring everyone is properly restrained in a seatbelt or child car seat.  

If you see dangerous driving, call 111.