Richard Hamer and the Whakatāne District Council road safety team can be found across the Eastern Bay these holidays, keeping an eye on drivers while offering opportunities to rest, relax, and catch up before continuing their journeys.

Based in Thornton on Tuesday morning and at Maraetōtara, Ōhope, in the afternoon, the team  set up pit stops with activities designed to both entertain and raise awareness around road safety.

The morning session at Thornton drew around 35 people in the two hours.

“We have competitions, cornhole games, as well as pedal carts,” said Mr Hamer.

“The carts are a fun experience where participants navigate an obstacle course, then repeat it while wearing goggles designed to simulate alcohol and drug impairment.

“It gives people, especially kids, a chance to understand how their environment can affect them.”

The road safety team has seven locations scheduled for events: Ōhope, Thornton, Te Kaha, Kawerau, Ruatāhuna, Ōpōtiki, and Tāneatua.

They encourage anyone passing by to stop in for a rest, a chat, or a spin of the wheel for a chance to win a prize.