Canterbury Police are urging rural motorists to drive with care this Easter following two fatal crashes in just two hours on Tuesday.

In the 18 months leading up to this week, 26 people were killed on rural Canterbury roads. By Tuesday, that number had risen to 28.

Inspector Peter Cooper, Canterbury Rural Area Commander, said the recent tragedies had taken a toll on first responders, many of whom are volunteers.

“Every one of those fatalities comes with a massive human toll, affecting the families and friends of the deceased, the motorists who are first on the scene, and the first responders—particularly the large number of them who are volunteers,” he said.

“Every death on the roads affects us all—it’s people in our rural community who are going to the deaths of people from their communities.”

Cooper said even for seasoned police officers, fatal crashes are confronting.

“In the space of two hours on Tuesday, the team that investigated a fatal crash in Culverden then had to attend the second fatal crash in Leithfield. It’s rough for everyone, and you’re seeing things nobody should have to see.”

As Easter approaches, he is urging drivers to slow down and remain alert behind the wheel.

“If the weather’s bad like it’s meant to be this weekend, slow down. If you’re tired from driving, take rest breaks and take in the scenery.

“Drive like your life, and the lives of those you love, depends on it. When we say one death is too many, we mean it.”