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.”
VTNZ has been contacted for comment. In a statement issued and published by Stuff on October 7, the company said it took “decisive and serious action” after the allegations came to light, including by initiating a thorough investigation and systems review.
“I want to reassure everyone that we investigated with the utmost urgency,” Greg O’Connor, VTNZ country manager, told Stuff.
“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.
“Anyone sitting their driver licence test can still have complete faith in VTNZ… we will fully support any action taken by NZTA or NZ Police.”
