The police in Queenstown are on a mission to make people belt up while driving.
Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson told the Otago Daily Times there was a perception among local officers that many motorists were ignoring the rule. He said it was ``disappointing'' young people chose to offend, given laws have been in place for decades.
Sen Sgt Wilkinson pointed to national figures which show wearing a seat belt can reduce the fatality risk by 50%.
``There is just no reason for not wearing one. The reality is it saves lives and it takes two seconds to put it on.
``From a policing point of view it is frustrating when you see people not wearing them - I mean it is not like it is a new thing.''
He urged drivers to belt up but issued a stern warning to those who flouted the rules.
``Expect to see us out and about. We will be parked up at intersections and this will be a focus in Queenstown and around Otago. We want to pick up those who are committing the offence.''
Officers will continue to address drink-driving and the use of mobile phones by motorists, but Snr Sgt Wilkinson stressed basic road safety rules, such as wearing seat belts, would be a priority.
