Otago Police are promising to keep targeting impaired drivers in the lead-up to Christmas and over summer after a "disappointing" weekend at checkpoints across the district.
Police set up a number of checkpoints across the district on Friday and Saturday focusing on impaired drivers.
"Overall, we were disappointed with the actions and decisions of some individuals," Otago Coastal Road Policing Senior Sergeant Jared Kirk said.
Balclutha was of particular concern, with eight people on Friday night alone processed for excess alcohol, four of those to result in a court appearance, Mr Kirk said.
"It’s clear that the message is not getting through to some drivers and they are choosing to place themselves and other road users at significant risk," he said.
"There simply isn’t any excuse for this behaviour.”
Police will continue to carry out operations such as this leading into Christmas and throughout summer, generally the busiest time of year with more vehicles on the road, Mr Kirk said.
"We will be making sure we have a visible presence during this time and drivers can expect to see more checkpoints."
Police are appealing to drivers to plan in advance by organising a sober driver or using public transport or courtesy coaches, if drinking.
Alcohol is a contributing factor in approximately 25 per cent of all fatal crashes in the police Southern District.
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