News Release
5 April 2004
World Health Day – Road Safety
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised that if current trends continue, road traffic injuries will be the
third leading contributor to the global burden of disease and injury world-wide. They have dedicated World Health Day on
April 7th to Road Safety, and New Zealand will be joining with many countries around the World in announcing road safety
initiatives.
Some 50% of road traffic fatalities world-wide (58% in New Zealand) involve young adults aged 15-44 years, the most
economically productive segment of the population.
On World Health Day, the AA Driver Education Foundation announces two important road safety initiatives. Media book your
diaries.
In a move described as “the most significant thing to happen in driver education in New Zealand”, Porirua College, is
the first to incorporate driver education into the core curriculum for its students.
1. The programme, called ‘Drive Force’, will be launched at Porirua College, Driver Cre, on World Health Day, 7 April,
9.00am. All media welcome to attend. (Embargoed news release available).
2. Students Against Driving Drunk (SADD) Appointment of new SADD Ambassadors, 3.00pm, Beehive Foyer, Presentation by
Hon John Tamihere, Minister of Youth Affairs. (Embargoed news release available)
ENDS