Drivers heading for the Powercruise event at Taupo's Motorsport Park Raceway this weekend are being promised a weekend of close scrutiny from police.

Road safety and alcohol harm will be the focus of a police operation, promising the hundreds of street car enthusiasts a strong police presence – both at the venue and on the roads leading to and from it.

Police are taking a hard approach at this weekend's Powercruise event at Taupo's Motorsport Park Raceway.

'We understand the enthusiasm for cars; many police staff share that enthusiasm, but safety remains our key priority,” says sergeant Greg Weston of Taupo Police.

'The event attracts a significant number of modified vehicles; and we will be working closely with NZTA inspectors and technicians over the weekend to ensure vehicles on the road – modified or not – are safe for their drivers, passengers and other road users.”

The event begins Friday, running through to Sunday at the Taupo Motorsport Park.

There is only one vehicle entrance to the event, which is on Off Road Highway, about 150 metres from Broadlands Rd. Motorists can expect extra traffic flow in and around the Taupo area and are encouraged to allow plenty of time for trips and to take extra care on the roads.

The Powercruise event is advertised as alcohol-free; and security will be carrying out searches on-site. Police staff will also be conducting foot patrols through the venue. On the roads, the public can expect to see police checkpoints and to be breath-tested.

'Specialist driving needs to be restricted to the track inside the organised event. Outside, motorists need to be respecting the road rules and other road users – and we will be taking a zero tolerance approach to dangerous driving,” says Greg.

The weather is looking fine for the three days, but Police are still urging motorists to drive to the conditions, keep to the speed limit and take plenty of rest breaks.