Police have reported a reduction in road deaths for the third consecutive year, with enforcement activity reaching record levels.

The provisional number of road deaths in 2025 is currently 272, down from 292 in 2024.

Director Road Policing Superintendent Steve Greally said the continued decline was largely due to Operation Open Roads.

“Over the last three years, we have seen constant reductions in the number of fatalities on our roads, while we have also nearly tripled the number of alcohol breath tests in that same period.

“For another year, our officers have worked tirelessly to ensure we can do everything possible to reduce the number of serious injuries and fatalities on our roads.”

Superintendent Greally said that while the figures were moving in the right direction, too many families were still losing loved ones.

Police conducted nearly four and a half million alcohol breath tests in the 2024 2025 financial year, and issued more than half a million speeding infringements.

“Breath testing and speed enforcement are two of our main focus areas, and we will continue to make no excuses for stopping and testing people.

“We continue to ask drivers to play their part and make sensible decisions both on the road and before you get behind the wheel.

“Unfortunately, we are still seeing evidence that people are making the wrong decisions when it comes to speed.

“Our aim is to see the number of speed infringements issued drop, which is an indication that people are doing the right thing, and following the sign posted speed limits.

“Plan your journey ahead so you have plenty of time and are never in a rush on the road.”

In December, police rolled out roadside drug driver testing in the Wellington region, and expects to scale up nationally between April and June 2026.

Superintendent Greally said police would continue efforts to change driver behaviour, particularly over the holiday period.

“Our staff are dedicated to changing driver behaviour and working towards maintaining the lowest number of fatalities in the coming years.

“We make no apology for taking action against anybody who is putting their life, and the lives of others, at risk on our roads.

“Put your seatbelt on, keep your speed down, put your cellphone away and make sure you are driving free of fatigue, drugs and alcohol.

“We want everybody to reach their destination safely.

“Stay patient on the roads, and make sure you do everything you can to keep everybody safe.”