Kia ora Kaitiaki o Ara / SADD whānau,

As we move into the second half of the year, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the momentum building across the SADD network. From student-led initiatives and workshops to community partnerships and advocacy, it’s been inspiring to see so many people working together to create safer roads and stronger communities.

Over the past month, our team has continued supporting schools, connecting with young people, and delivering workshops that empower rangatahi to be positive influencers among their peers. I’ve been especially encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by our leadership programme applicants - the creative problem solving, passion and experience coming through lets me know we’ll have another amazing group of National Leaders for 26/27!

What makes this work so special is that it extends far beyond students alone. The impact of SADD is made possible through the collective efforts of educators, whānau, community organisations, and supporters who share a commitment to keeping young people safe on our roads. I had the privilege of being part of the first South Island U -Turn event in Nelson last month, which was a fantastic example of community coming together to champion our rangatahi. Kia ora - thank you to everyone involved in this kaupapa.

We are so glad you are part of the SADD journey. Whether you’re leading initiatives, supporting young people behind the scenes, or promoting road safety in your community, your contribution matters. We look forward to sharing more stories, opportunities, and resources with you in this month’s newsletter.

Ngā mihi nui,

Lauren Robinson - South Island Delivery Lead

Winter brings shorter days, colder temperatures, and more challenging driving conditions. Whether you're commuting to work, heading away for the weekend, or driving to school, it's important to adjust your driving to suit the conditions around you.

"Driving to the conditions" means changing the way you drive based on the weather, road surface, traffic, and visibility. In winter, roads can be wet, icy, or covered in debris, while fog, rain, and low light can make it harder to see hazards ahead.

A few simple adjustments can make a big difference:

• Slow down and allow extra time for your journey.

• Increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react.

• Use your headlights in low-light conditions and heavy rain.

• Avoid sudden braking, accelerating, or steering movements.

• Keep your windscreen clear and ensure your wipers are working properly.

• Check your tyres regularly to make sure they have good tread and are correctly inflated.

Before heading out, it's also worth checking the weather forecast and road conditions, especially if you're travelling long distances or through rural areas.

Remember, speed limits are designed for ideal conditions. When the weather changes, the safest speed may be well below the posted limit. Taking a little extra care can help keep you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road safe this winter.

Drive to the conditions, arrive safely.

Delivery Team Spotlight!

The Delivery Team has been massively impressed with the continued efforts of SADD groups across the motu who continue to raise awareness for youth road safety.

A highlight this month was the successful Auckland Regional Workshop hosted by Rangitoto College, bringing together students from Kristin School, Orewa College, and Long Bay College. The workshop focused on celebrating successes, addressing challenges, exploring effective SADD leadership, and strengthening understanding of impact evaluation. The session provided valuable opportunities for students to connect, collaborate, and share ideas, helping to strengthen relationships between Auckland SADD groups.

Ahead of the school ball season, Orewa College students demonstrated strong peer leadership by delivering interactive road safety sessions to Year 13 students. These sessions encouraged students to think ahead, make safe choices, and understand the risks associated with drink driving and other unsafe behaviours.

The team is also preparing for the second year of the Show Up campaign, launching next term. The campaign encourages students to share how they are showing up for road safety within their schools and communities. Following the success of last year's campaign, we are excited to see the creativity, leadership, and road safety advocacy students will showcase this year.

Young people across Aotearoa are making a difference every day through their SADD groups, and now it's time to celebrate those efforts.

The SADD Impact Awards recognise students, groups, and initiatives that are creating positive change in their schools and communities. Whether you've led a campaign, organised an event, supported your peers, or helped grow your SADD group, there's an opportunity to be recognised.

With a range of award categories, exciting prizes, and national recognition up for grabs, the awards are designed to highlight the passion, leadership, and impact of SADD members across the country.

Nominations are open to all students, teachers and community partners, and you can nominate yourself, your group, or someone else who deserves recognition.

Think you've made an impact? Make sure you're in to win and submit your nomination today.

Check out our events page of our website for all the key dates to pop in your 2026 calendars! Our Delivery Team are working hard to secure Term 2 workshop dates so keep an eye on this page as more dates and locations will be added every week.

This month, we want to express our gratitude and thanks to a small, but mighty group of donors:

AS from Auckland, YJ from Nelson, BS from Dunedin & OM from NZ.

Your generosity is very much appreciated. Stay safe 😎