The number of recorded boy racers offences in the Bay of Plenty has decreased since legislation aimed at combating illegal street racing was introduced in 2009.

Illegal street racing offences have dropped 69.2 per cent in Bay of Plenty Police District.

The number of illegal street racing offences has dropped 69.2 per cent.

In 2009 there were 321 offences, in 2013 this had fallen to 99.

'This huge drop in offences is a great achievement. It means our roads are safer and our communities are safer,” says Tauranga MP Simon Bridges.

'National introduced new laws in 2009 which have provided a strong disincentive to boy racers.”

Nationally, illegal street racing offences have dropped nearly 50 per cent from 2009 to 2013.

During the same period, road deaths for 15 to 24-year-olds have fallen from 105 to 66.

'This drop in offences and illegal behaviour means fewer deaths and injuries on our roads, both to innocent bystanders, and to the boy racers themselves.”

Of the total 10,141 street racing offences since 2009, only 242 offenders are on their second strike and 13 drivers have received three convictions.

Judges have granted destruction orders on three cars – one of which was crushed in Tauranga in December 2013.

'I think our boy racer legislation has made it clear – if they offend, there will be harsh consequences,” says Simon.