The official holiday period has ended with nine people tragically killed in crashes on New Zealand roads.

The holiday period runs from December 24th to January the 3rd. This years road toll is 3 less then last years total, of 12.

“My thoughts are with the families, friends and communities of the nine people who have lost their lives,” said Julie Anne Genter, Associate Minister For Transport.

“This is yet another reminder of the need to make substantial improvements to road safety in New Zealand.”

Julie Anne Genter

The lowest recorded holiday road toll was six, back in 2012-2013. The highest holiday period of road deaths on record was in 1972-73 when there were 37 deaths.

“Many deaths and serious injuries on our roads are preventable. This Government is committed to reducing deaths and serious injuries through new thinking, more funding and prioritised action.”

“The Government is investing $1.4 billion over three years to make urgent safety improvement across our high-risk roads. On high volume state highways, New Zealanders can expect to see more improvements like life-saving median and side barriers and crash-preventing rumble strips.”

“This year we will be consulting the public on a new road safety strategy and action plan to drive substantial improvements in road safety in New Zealand,” said Julie Anne Genter.

An AA spokesperson person Mike Noon said that the road safety message was starting to seep through to the general public, but he is still urging people to take care on the roads.

Mike Noon

“Take it easy out there, keep a good, safe speed, keep a good following distance, don’t get on your cell phone, make sure you have lots of breaks for the kids – we want you to get home safe, that’s the goal,” Mr Noon said.