New Zealand population is less than four million, but there is a very high level of car ownership, and a roading network and terrain conditions which are less than optimal. Good progress has been achieved in improving safety on New Zealand's roads over the last ten years. The annual road toll has reduced from a peek of 795 in 1987 to 509 in 1999. The reduction is commendable - especially as it has been achieved in the face of a 40 per cent increase in traffic volume, but there is still a long way to go. The National Road Safety Plan (NRSP) sets national goals and vision for the future, targets and priorities, and describes the roles and responsibilities of organisations and individuals with a role in road safety. It is based on six principles: (1) Co-ordination; (2) Road safety ownership; (3) Treaty of Waitangi; (4) Demonstrated best practice; (5) Value for money; and (6) Monitoring and evaluation.
Abstract