Top cop denies speed cameras are all about police revenue collecting as more rolled out

A senior police officer is denying claims that speed cameras are all about revenue collecting by police, as a new safe speed camera is set to start operating in the Waikato Police District.

State Highway 29 in Te Poi is among 33 locations across the country where new digital cameras are being installed as part of the third phase of the $10 million static camera expansion programme, announced in July 2013.

The camera on SH 29 is one of seven cameras being installed in the Waikato Police District as part of the third phase and is due to start operating next week. 

Inspector Peter McKennie, Operations Manager Road Policing, says while some people believe camera infringements are about revenue collecting, they are not.  

Police do not retain the money from camera infringements and the money goes into the Crown's consolidated fund,  Mr McKennie said.

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We know from international experience that safe speed cameras have an impact on slowing people down to safer speeds

—  Inspector Peter McKennie | Operations Manager Road Policing

"We're only interested in the impact the cameras have on encouraging people to slow down to safe and appropriate speeds, so they get to their destination safely," he said.

Sites receiving new cameras have all been identified as having a high crash risk based on detailed analysis by independent traffic experts.

"We know from international experience that safe speed cameras have an impact on slowing people down to safer speeds, and that's what we want," Mr McKennie said.

"This is why we're placing safe speed cameras at this and other sites, to encourage people to reduce their speed, which in turn helps reduce deaths and injuries on our roads.

"Road crashes have devastating impacts on families and communities," he said. 

The camera expansion programme will continue to be backed by other measures, including a highly visible police presence on high risk routes.

Police encourage drivers to protect themselves and their families by driving to the conditions and within the speed limit, driving sober and alert, and making sure everyone in the car wears a safety belt, Mr McKennie said.