Police in Southland and Otago are out in force from Wednesday to catch any people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs over the holiday period.
The Southern District Police have launched a new drink driving campaign that will continue through Christmas and into the New Year.
Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Steve Larking says police will be testing as many drivers as possible at peak times at road checkpoints and carrying out random stops.
He says with the holiday season underway it is important for people to ensure plenty of food is available at Christmas functions and that everybody has a safe way to get home.
More than 40,000 drivers were pulled over and tested in the region last holiday season (December 2011 and January 2012) and nearly 300 were charged with drink or drug driving offences.
