New Zealand is on track for one of its lowest annual road tolls in more than a decade, but authorities say the festive season brings heightened risk as thousands of holidaymakers hit the roads.
As of December 24, 268 people have died on New Zealand roads in 2025, compared with 280 at the same time last year.
In 2024, the total road toll was 292, the lowest per capita on record. If the trend were to continue, 2025 could finish below that number.
The official Christmas-New Year holiday road toll period began at 4pm this afternoon and lasts until 6am on January 3 — marking one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Police said the holiday period is one of the most dangerous times of year.
"We’re not taking anything for granted," said Superintendent Steve Greally.
"People will see our officers out in force in big numbers. And if you’re hell bent on putting yourself or someone else at risk, do not expect a warning."
Drivers have been urged to wear seatbelts; avoid impairment like alcohol, drugs, or fatigue; stay alert; and watch their speed.
While the downward trend was encouraging, experts caution against reading too much into short-term data.
Urie Bezuidenhout from Auckland University says at least five years of figures are needed to confirm real improvement.
"The nature of crashes means we can’t measure progress over a very short period," he said.
Caroline Perry, director of road safety charity Brake, said gains had stagnated in the past decade.
"We're not seeing the kinds of road safety gains that we would like to see in terms of reducing deaths and also serious injuries on our roads."
Police said increased traffic, longer trips, and fatigue made this one of the most dangerous times of year.
"We want everyone to get to their destination safely," Perry said, urging drivers to check vehicles before setting off, including tyre pressure and tread.
Despite the positive trend, Greally said every death was a tragedy.
"What’s really bad and traumatic for our frontline is knocking on someone’s door and telling them their loved one isn’t coming home. It’s heartbreaking."
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