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Taranaki Police Run 460 Breath Tests, Charge Drunk Drivers

8/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Police in Taranaki conducted 460 compulsory breath tests over the weekend, issuing drink-driving charges and dozens of infringement notices.
Checkpoints operated in New Plymouth, Oakura, Bell Block, Inglewood and Waitara over the weekend with help from Manawatu and Whanganui Impairment Prevention teams.
Two drivers who allegedly tried to evade the checkpoints were located, arrested and charged with unlawfully taking a vehicle and burglary after police linked them to a Manaia incident.

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Story summary

Police in Taranaki conducted 460 compulsory breath tests over the weekend, issuing drink-driving charges and dozens of infringement notices.
Checkpoints operated in New Plymouth, Oakura, Bell Block, Inglewood and Waitara over the weekend with help from Manawatu and Whanganui Impairment Prevention teams.
Two drivers who allegedly tried to evade the checkpoints were located, arrested and charged with unlawfully taking a vehicle and burglary after police linked them to a Manaia incident.