File photoPolice are crediting Operation Open Roads for a reduction in road deaths for the third year in a row. In a statement, police said the provisional number of road deaths in 2025 was 272. Superintendent Steve Greally, director of road police, said the reduction was in "large part", because of its focus on deaths on open roads. "We continue to ask drivers to play their part and make sensible decisions both on the road and before you get behind the wheel. "Our aim is to see the number of speed infringements issued drop, which is an indication that people are doing the right thing, and following the sign-posted speed limits."

Source: Otago Daily Times December 31, 2025 20:41 UTC