The Cook Islands police have warned motorcyclists who get caught without a helmet to pay their fine or recieve a criminal conviction.
The police said cases were piling up in court because many bikers caught breaking the law were ignoring offence notices.
Public safety campaign sign in Cook Islands Photo: RNZI/Walter Zweifel
It is a year since it was made compulsory for 16 to 25 year olds to wear helmets while riding a motorbike, which is a popular mode of transport in the Cook Islands.
Sergeant Maeva Kirikava said people have seven days to pay the fine of up to $US70 before the matter escalates.
"Failure to do so then the police will have to prepare documentation and lay a charge within the high court and for that you're getting the chance for failing to pay for minor offence notice, then you could get convicted of that particular offence," he said.