Vodafone Warriors players joined forces with New Zealand Police and Auckland Transport on Saturday night in a push to combat drink-driving, and reward sober drivers.
The players handed out flags, miniature rugby balls, meet-and-greets with their favourite players and tickets to their next match to those who had kept under the limit.
The operation took place across four checkpoints around Auckland; Manukau, East Tamaki, Takanini and Mt Wellington.
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Police said in a statement they pulled over 3000 vehicles, and 21 people were processed for drink-driving instead of going home with free tickets.
Vodafone Warriors chief executive Cameron George welcomed the opportunity for the players.
"The players really relished being involved in last night's operation," he said.
Rewards were handed out to people
National Road Policing Manager, Superintendent Steve Greally says the risk of being in a serious crash whilst under the influence of alcohol is vastly heightened.
"Tragically, 75 people in Auckland have lost their lives and further 516 were seriously injured in alcohol related crashes in the past five years (2013-2017)," he said.
"That tells us that attitudes around drink driving still have to change."
The Warriors match those who were sober or using a driving service were awarded free tickets to is on August 24, when they will go head to head with the Penrith Panthers.
Newshub.