Southern Police are urging motorists to drive safe this holiday weekend after a driver was arrested and charged with excess breath alcohol.

At around 5.20pm, Oamaru Police were notified by a member of the public of a vehicle driving dangerously on State Highway One.

A Police unit saw the vehicle on the main street of Oamaru and signalled the vehicle to stop.

The 31-year-old man driving from Christchurch to Invercargill returned a breath alcohol result over five times the legal limit.

The man was taken into custody at the scene.

Police know there are four factors that can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads - restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions, and speed.

Motorists are urged to take greater responsibility on our roads and ensure everyone in their vehicle is able to reach their destination safely.

Police would like to thank the member of the public who reported the driving behaviour.

The 31-year-old man is due to appear in court at a later date.

If you see unsafe driving behaviour, or someone is in immediate danger, please call 111 as soon as possible.

You can also report non-emergencies or matters after the fact through 105.

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