No deaths on Ashburton roads in 2024

Not one person has died on Ashburton’s roads in 2024.

That’s an incredible statistic, but local police say keeping the death toll at zero is a “team effort.”

Dangerous driving complaints have increased in Mid Canterbury over the holiday period, Ashburton police have said.

“The nature of the complaints has varied, but includes speed, inconsiderate driving, unsafe overtaking, and concerns around drivers being fatigued or intoxicated,” Senior Sergeant Janine Bowden said.

The local cops have collaborated with other police teams across the region to run checkpoints and monitor driving speeds.

“We’ve had a significant presence on the roads, and that work’s going to continue.

“Road safety isn’t just a job for Police, though – it’s a team effort.”

She asked drivers to refrain from driving if they were fatigued, and pay good attention at rural intersections.

With so many freight trucks and agricultural machinery passing through the town, she also reminded people to account for them on the road, and to be patient.

“It’s frustrating being stuck in traffic when you want to get to your destination, but nothing’s worth risking your life or the lives of others.

“We want everyone to get to their destination safely.”

In 2023, there were five fatal crashes around Ashburton. In 2022, there were three crashes, and in 2021, five crashes.

Across the country, 289 people lost their lives in fatal car accidents.

While that’s a drop from 341 deaths the previous year, police believe “any number is too high”.

“Our frontline is passionate about preventing serious crashes,” Director of road policing Superintendent Greally said.

“So if you are one of those people who is determined to put people’s lives at risk and you are caught, you should not expect a warning.

“Given the increased levels of Police enforcement, the chances of being caught are high.”

Breath testing has increased across the country, with police on track to hit 4 million tests by June this year.

Police have more than doubled the number of alcohol breath tests conducted over the last couple of years, and are on track to conduct more than 4 million by the end of the financial year in June 2025.

“Ensure everyone in your vehicle is safely buckled up, drive at a safe speed for the conditions under the speed limit, put your cellphone away, and ensure you’re driving free of fatigue, alcohol, and drugs."

If you see someone driving dangerously, call 111.

If you have concerns about someone’s road behaviour, make a report at 105.police.govt.nz.

By Anisha Satya