An unmarked Police motorcycle will be added to Canterbury’s police force.

The motorcycle is fully operational, with lights, radio and siren, but without the livery.

There is also a fit-for-purpose protective uniform for the rider, which includes a high-vis vest.

The trial is focusing on the driver and rider behaviour we know causes the most harm on the road; unrestrained drivers and riders not wearing helmets, distracted drivers, impaired drivers, and people speeding.

It is also focusing on red-light runners.

Director of the National Road Policing Centre, Superintendent Steve Greally says that this initiative will assist in changing unsafe behaviours, especially in relation to restraints and cell phone use.

“The fact that these motorcycles will not be immediately obvious as Police vehicles, is expected to have a positive impact in death and serious injuries as it has overseas jurisdictions.”

The trial is running from March through to the end of May, initially in Canterbury, before moving to Tāmaki Makaurau and Wellington.