Chief Inspector John Wadsworth said it appeared the "message was getting through" that if you drive with alcohol or drugs, it's a matter of when and not if you'll get caught.

Over 2500 random breath tests were administered by both highway patrol and general duty officers across the district.

13 seat belt infringements, 82 speeding tickets and 82 other tickets were doled out.

"We were happy with the results over the weekend, as it appears people are getting the message," Chief Inspector Wadsworth said.

"They know police will be around during these operations, but it is becoming more and more common that we have one operation rolling straight on into the other, with Operation Merritt continuing - targeting random drug and drink testing.

"So it's not a matter of if you get caught - but when, if you choose to drink or drug drive."

Operation Merritt runs until October 26.

The weekend started off with one fatality near Roto on Friday morning.

Around 7.30am this morning emergency services were called out to an accident between a white Toyota Landcruiser and a white Ford Utility on Wee Elwah Road.

The driver of the Ford, a 59-year-old man died at the scene.

The driver of the Toyota Landcruiser, a 30-year-old man, and his male passenger walked away uninjured.

As inquiries continue, anyone who was travelling along Wee Elwah Road at the time of the crash or has dash cam vision is being asked to come forward.