Coca-Cola shouts designated drivers free non-alcoholic drinks to get Kiwis home safe this summer

Designated drivers will get to enjoy free non-alcoholic Coca-Cola drinks at selected venues in Auckland and Wellington over December and January thanks to a partnership between Coca-Cola NZ and selected hospitality groups including SkyCity in Auckland and the Wellington Hospitality Group (WHG).
 
The Designated Drivers programme has been developed in an effort to remind people about keeping safe on the roads, and to celebrate those that do, at such busy time of year.
 
Designated drivers simply TXT ‘driver’ to 345 to receive three mobile coupons to be redeemed for free Coca-Cola drinks at selected Auckland and Wellington bars and restaurants across each city. The vouchers can be used on a range of beverages from the Coca-Cola portfolio including Coke, Coke Zero and the Schweppes range.
 
“Drink-driving is an issue that can be avoided. We want to celebrate those designated drivers by shouting free Coca-Cola drinks to say thanks for keeping your mates safe while enjoying a Christmas party or night out,” says Pip Mearns, Coca-Cola Brand Manager.
 
Ministry of Transport statistics show alcohol and drugs were a contributing factor in 88 fatal traffic crashes in 2015, resulting in 90 deaths and 409 serious injuries. Young drivers are more than twice as likely to have speed or alcohol as a contributing factor in a crash, compared with drivers over the age of 25.
 
“We’re grateful to have the support of our hospitality partners and the endorsement of Auckland Transport and Hospitality New Zealand to help bring this pilot programme to life,” Mearns says.
 
Auckland Transport Walking, Cycling and Safety Manager Kathryn King says, “We commend any campaign or messaging that encourages sober driving, particularly throughout the festive season.”
 
Coca-Cola’s Designated Drivers programme has run successfully in the UK for the past 10 years, but this is the first time it will be available to New Zealanders.
 
“We’re trialling Designated Drivers in Auckland and Wellington and if successful, we would like to see it rolled out more widely to bars, restaurants and other venues throughout the country,” Mearns says.