# Expect a checkpoint - anytime, anywhere

Date: 8 Oct 2026
Released by: New Zealand Police

## MediaRelease.co Summary

Twenty drink-drive arrests were made across Southland last weekend, including 16 around Invercargill and others in Tuatapere, Gore and Te Anau. Acting Senior Sergeant Blair Shirley warned against driving after drinking or using drugs. Checkpoints are expected to continue around the region.

## Original release

Southland Police are disappointed by the high number of people drink driving in the region last weekend. From Friday to Sunday, Police apprehended 20 people for drink driving offences: 16 around Invercargill, 2 in Tuatapere, 1 in Gore, and 1 in Te Anau. Acting Senior Sergeant Blair Shirley says if you’re drinking or using drugs, legal or illegal, don’t drive. “Choose a sober driver. Call a taxi. Use public transport. Stay the night.” “One decision can save a life.” “The consequences of crashes caused by alcohol or drugs are devastating, and that’s something we as Police see too often.” “If you’re heading out, plan a sober ride home for the sake of your safety and everyone else’s.” “We want everyone travelling on our roads to get home safely. Over the weekend period, Police conducted 2000 breath tests. Police will continue to maintain a strong presence on Southland roads to educate drivers and prevent harm. The legal alcohol limit for a fully licensed driver over 20 years of age is 250mcg per litre of breath. The limit for anyone under 20 is zero. Police commend the many motorists who make the right call by arranging safe transport and remind drivers to expect alcohol and drug checkpoints anywhere and at any time.

## Key details

- Issued by: New Zealand Police
- Published: 8 Oct 2026
- Publisher country: New Zealand
- Original source: https://www.police.govt.nz/news/release/expect-checkpoint-anytime-anywhere
- MediaRelease.co URL: https://mediarelease.co/nz/mr01512-expect-a-checkpoint-anytime-anywhere-08102026.html

Original source: https://www.police.govt.nz/news/release/expect-checkpoint-anytime-anywhere
MediaRelease.co canonical URL: https://mediarelease.co/nz/mr01512-expect-a-checkpoint-anytime-anywhere-08102026.html