Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
One motorist caught in a drink driving operation in Hawke's Bay this weekend was four times over the legal limit, police say.
Checkpoints across the region saw 38 drivers processed for excess breath alcohol, with one driver returning a reading of 1000 micrograms - the limit for drivers aged over 20 is 250 micrograms.
Inspector Angela Hallett said police were not giving up on their business-as-usual response amid Cyclone Gabrielle recovery work, but the results from the crackdown were "disappointing".
"If you are going to be enjoying a few drinks, then make sure you have a plan to get home or a sober driver to assist.
"Unfortunately, there were some drivers who were putting themselves and others at risk."
She said the community could be assured that while police were still dealing with cyclone recovery efforts, they were also out in force on roads across the Hawke's Bay.
"This is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to ensure we drive safely at all times and do not take any unnecessary risks - getting behind the wheel after drinking is one of those risks not worth taking."