New Road Policing Plan to Target Drunk and Drugged Drivers

• New $1.3 billion Road Policing Investment Programme targets drunk and drugged drivers.
• Increased breath tests and new drug testing regime aim to improve road safety.
• Performance-based funding introduced to ensure enforcement targets are met.

The New Zealand Government has unveiled a new $1.3 billion Road Policing Investment Programme (RPIP) for 2024-2027, with a strong focus on targeting drunk and drugged drivers. Announced by Transport Minister Simeon Brown, the plan aims to significantly enhance road safety by increasing enforcement efforts against the leading contributors to fatal crashes.

A key component of the RPIP is the increase in alcohol breath tests, with a target of 3.3 million tests annually. Minister Brown emphasised that 65% of these tests will be conducted during high or extreme alcohol risk times. This targeted approach aims to maximise the deterrent effect of breath tests, which have historically been inconsistent, with some years seeing fewer than half of the targeted tests conducted.

The programme also introduces a new regime for roadside drug testing, with the Government allocating $20 million to implement and deliver these tests. The plan sets an ambitious target of 50,000 oral fluid tests per year once the system is fully operational. This is in response to the alarming statistic that drug-related crashes accounted for an average of 105 deaths annually between 2019 and 2022, representing about 30% of all road fatalities.

To ensure these targets are met, the Government has introduced performance-based funding for the first time. Over the next three years, $72 million will be available as incentive payments for the Police, contingent on meeting the set targets for speed, alcohol, and drug enforcement.

Minister Brown stated, “Our Government is focused on improving road safety through road policing and enforcement, investment in new and safe roading infrastructure, and targeting the leading contributors to fatal crashes such as drug and alcohol impairment.” He stressed the importance of achieving these enforcement targets to enhance road safety across New Zealand.