Source: Radio New Zealand
File photo. RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Police say they have tested more than 300 people and issued seven infringements since roadside drug testing was introduced in the Wellington region two months ago.
On 18 December last year, police began screening drivers in and around the capital for cannabis, methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine.
Director of road policing Superintendent Steve Greally said police had received positive feedback from the public and frontline staff about the programme.
“National drug-driving testing will further bolster our policing efforts in making roads safer for all, and deterring drivers who are impaired whether by drugs or alcohol from endangering the lives of others.”
He said drivers could not use a prescription or medical note to stop them from needing to take a test or to dispute a positive result.
“The message is still the same for drivers who drive impaired by drugs – don’t take drugs and drive,” Greally said.
“You need to know what you are taking and how it might affect driving and any period of time where it is unsafe to drive.”
“If you intend to get behind the wheel after consuming impairing drugs, you will be caught.”
Testing remains ongoing across the Wellington region – from Kāpiti, Porirua, Wellington City, the Hutt Valley and through to Masterton.
Police will begin roadside drug testing across the rest of the country by mid-2026.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
