A new safe speed camera will start operating next week in Bay of Plenty in an effort to ensure safe speeds and reduce deaths and injuries on our roads.

SH2 in Pukehina is among 33 locations across the country where new digital cameras are being installed as part of the third phase of the $10m static camera expansion programme, announced in July 2013. The camera on SH2 is due to start operating next week.

Sites receiving new cameras have all been identified as having a high crash risk based on detailed analysis by independent traffic experts.

'Road crashes have devastating impacts on families and communities,” says operations manager road policing inspector Peter McKennie.

'We know from international experience that safe speed cameras have an impact on slowing people down to safer speeds, and that's what we want,

'This is why we're placing safe speed cameras at this and other sites, to encourage people to reduce their speed, which in turn helps reduce deaths and injuries on our roads.”

Inspector Peter says that while some people believe camera infringements are about revenue collecting, they are not.

They do not retain the money from camera infringements, the money goes into the Crown's consolidated fund, he says.

'We're only interested in the impact the cameras have on encouraging people to slow down to safe and appropriate speeds, so they get to their destination safely.”

The expansion programme will continue to be backed by other measures, including a highly visible Police presence on high risk routes.

'All road users have a part to play in keeping our roads safe.

"We encourage drivers to protect themselves and their families by driving to the conditions and within the speed limit, driving sober and alert, and making sure everyone in the car wears a safety belt.

'Let's work together and make sure everybody gets where they're going safely."