Waka Kotahi tackles drug driving with FCB and MBM

FCB, MBM, and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi have launched a new campaign that confronts New Zealanders with the harsh realities of driving under the influence of drugs.

The campaign, introducing the plea “Don’t Let the Drugs Drive”, is the first step in a platform designed to tackle this pressing issue on our roads.

Statistics show drugs are present in nearly a third of all fatal crashes, yet there is low awareness of the issue amongst New Zealanders and many people don’t think drug drivers will get caught.

Challenging misconceptions

The campaign seeks to reach all New Zealanders, raising awareness and encouraging reflection and accountability for the problem. It aims to challenge a misconception about the consequences of drug driving; highlighting that police are not the only concern or source of consequence.

The hero film, directed by Tom Gould and produced by Sweetshop, uses technology and cinematography to capture one continuous 180-degree spinning movement to draw viewers in, culminating in a bird’s-eye view drone shot to show the scale of the tragedy.

Emotional performances from actors and real New Zealand Police and Fire & Emergency New Zealand first responders heighten every sensory aspect of the script.

“It was important to show the damage that is actually happening on our roads. It’s not minor dings, it’s death and serious injury. The perception is that alcohol and speed are the main factors in crashes, but unfortunately we have to add drugs to that list,” explains Leisa Wall, Chief Creative Officer.

Educational phase

Senior Creatives, Tim Gavriel and Aaron Carbines say, “In order to have ads like “Ghost Chips”, you needed to preface it with years of educational communications that highlight the harsh consequences of drink driving. Now, that NZTA Waka Kotahi has drawn a line in the sand, it feels like we are at the beginning of that same educational phase with our “Don’t Let the Drugs Drive” platform.”

“This is the first step in a programme of work to tackle drug driving,” says Emma Bottomley, NZTA Marketing Manager.

“We must raise awareness of the issue with New Zealanders before we can change attitudes and beliefs and ultimately behaviour.”

The campaign launched on February 23 across offline and online channels as part of a broad-reaching media communications approach.

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