But Dunedin police warn they will be highly visible during the next two weeks, to make sure it stays that way during the official holiday period.
While the national holiday period road toll rose to seven last night after six fatal accidents around the country, the annual road toll is set to be the lowest for more than 50 years.
Last night the annual toll stood at 276, compared with 369 in 2010 - a drop police have attributed to changing driver attitudes.
Constable Hugh Tait, of Dunedin, said police would be placing extra emphasis on the effects of alcohol in the community through visits to local hotels and regular vehicle checkpoints across the city.
"Operation Kick Start is focusing on deterrence as much as detection in an attempt to reduce the number of people who choose to drive a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol."
Between December 26, 2010 and January 9 this year, 23 drivers were processed for driving with excess breath-alcohol. Figures from the previous two years were similar, he said.
"These figures ... indicate that despite the ongoing national campaigns, a section of society continue to try their luck ..."
Const Tait said alcohol checkpoints would be run across the city in an attempt to apprehend those drivers who continued to "flout" the laws.
With increased traffic on Otago roads during the holiday period, Southern District acting road policing manager Senior Sergeant Steve Larking said it was important to be extra vigilant when driving.
Between now and January 4, police would be enforcing the reduced speed tolerance, and any driver travelling more than 4kmh over the posted speed limit could receive an infringement notice, he said.
"Over the holiday period, we need to take that extra care and drive like our lives depend on it - because they do," he said.
Tips for safer driving
• Plan, prepare and pack ahead of time.
• Make sure everything is securely stowed.
• Buckle up; use approved child safety seats.
• Make sure vehicle is roadworthy.
• Allow plenty of time for your journey and rest breaks.
• Maintain safe distance from vehicle in front.
• Keep left unless passing; pull over to let others pass.
• Pass on passing lanes or only with clear road ahead.
• Minimise distractions: eating, drinking, talking.
