School is back this week for local students: it’s time to try on uniforms, buy stationery, and figure out a route to school. 

Road safety is important for whānau and communities as the routines of school drop off and pick up, getting to work, and after school activities return.

National road policing centre director Superintendent Steve Greally said everyone has an important role in road safety, particularly around schools.

"We urge drivers to be extra vigilant and keep in mind that children can be highly unpredictable.

“We need to do everything we can to safeguard our kids as they walk or cycle to school – some of them for the first time.”

Police advise having a conversation with children about staying safe on our roads.

“It would be valuable to show them the safest route to get to school and back home and practise with them, including the safest places to cross.

“If you are walking your children to school, remind them to look left and right and look out for cars,” Steve said.

Drivers need to be aware there is pre-reseal repair work on Alexandra’s Royal Terrace (near to Dunstan High, The Terrace School and ECE providers), with signed diversions in place for the next two weeks (from January 30).

Police are also reminding people of the speed limit; 20 km/h when driving past a stationary school bus, and below 30 km/h when passing schools.

“Parents set the best example for our young people on how road users need to be safe and smart on our roads.”

The first day of school varies at Central schools; Cromwell College is February 1 for all students and Dunstan High will have full school attendance on February 2.

Find resources on back to school safety here.