Goat found unrestrained in a passenger vehicle at police checkpoints in Eastern Bay of Plenty

Over the last two days, the Eastern Bay of Plenty police conducted an operation targeting child restraints in vehicles and, during an inspection, she discovered an unretained goat. .

Constable Marty Sanderson of Whakatane Highway Police said the checkpoints had been made at Kawerau, Te Teko, Pōtiki and Whakatāne.

"The checkpoint was part of the East End Road Safety Group initiative and involved Eastbay REAP, Te Puna Ora O Mataatua, East Bay Road Safety and Te Pou Oranga O Whakatohea.

"It was strange to see an unrestrained goat in a car today," said Constable Sanderson.

"But what's good is that all human passengers were wearing their seatbelt.Although it's not illegal to have an unrestrained animal in your vehicle, pets should be securely fastened with a suitable harness or safety belt, in a barrier, cage or crate.

Sgt. Ray Wylie, of the Highway Police team, said he was satisfied with the way the operation unfolded.

"Among the defects identified were children who were not attached at all, twisted shoulder straps, poorly adjusted seats, and children with inappropriately sized restraints.

"In almost all cases where a child was found unbridled, the driver was wearing a seatbelt."

"Police want to remind drivers that it is their responsibility to ensure that children in vehicles up to age 15 are properly restrained," said Sergeant Wylie.

"The proper use of a child restraint can mean the difference between life and death, so it's important to regularly check the restraints to ensure the safety of our children."

During the operation, a technician inspected 166 child restraints, six were handed over to those in need and 33 offense notices were issued, including 15 for violation of restraint devices for children.