Probe into driving tests

The NZTA has confirmed that hundreds of motorists will have to sit their tests again after “serious misconduct” was uncovered at a Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) branch in Auckland.

The transport agency says it has been informed by VTNZ that five driver testing officers (DTOs) at the facility at Highbrook allegedly accepted payments to pass people taking their practical tests since 2023.

“We are requiring 322 people to re-sit driving tests following investigations, which found serious misconduct involving five DTOs at VTNZ’s Highbrook branch,” an NZTA spokesman told Autofile Online.

“The five DTOs have been dismissed by VTNZ, and their testing officer (O) endorsements have been suspended while the NZTA investigates these allegations. Potentially fraudulent activity has been referred to the police for investigation.”

The spokesman adds that VTNZ has ceased offering practical driver-licence testing at Highbrook. The site remains open for other services, including warrant and certificate of fitness inspections.

He adds: “The NZTA is contacting the people who were tested by these DTOs and received a driver licence during the period when fraud was suspected and requiring them to pass an on-road driving test, at no cost to them, to confirm that they have the necessary skills to continue to hold a licence.

“No further comment will be provided at this stage as the matter has been referred to the police and remains under investigation.”

Safety VTNZ’s ‘highest priority’

VTNZ says it took decisive and serious action following the allegations of dishonesty at its branch in Highbrook and worked with the NZTA on appropriate steps.

Country manager Greg O’Connor stresses that public safety is VTNZ’s highest priority. “I want to reassure everyone that we investigated with the utmost urgency,” he says.

“VTNZ places the highest importance on the integrity of licence testing and the safety of everyone who travels on our roads. We have zero tolerance for dishonesty, and will leave no stone unturned to uncover and eliminate any improper behaviour.”

After learning of the alleged breach, VTNZ says it took “immediate steps” to check systems and processes. It reviewed its systems and evaluated any extra security measures as a precaution.

O’Connor adds: “We have confidence in our team and our processes for driver licence testing. I promise we will take the strongest action against any employee found breaking the law and our trust. Anyone sitting their driver licence test can still have complete faith in VTNZ.”

VTNZ is working with the transport agency and police in the investigation. As the matter is subject to a criminal investigation and employee confidentiality, “VTNZ cannot comment further”, says O’Connor.

“However, I can promise we will fully support any action taken by the NZTA or NZ Police.”