Roadside screening for drug-impaired drivers has moved a step closer to becoming reality as Police confirm they have tested, and selected, a detection device.
Police will be rolling out roadside drug driving testing in the Wellington District from mid-December 2025.
Pathtech Pty Ltd, an Australian-based Drug Detection and Life Science provider, was the successful supplier of roadside oral fluid testing equipment, following an extensive global procurement process.
The Securetec DrugWipe 3 S device will be used by Police for the roadside drug screening. Pathtech will also supply Police with Oral Fluid Collection Kits, to collect saliva samples to be sent for laboratory analysis.
Pathtech has extensive knowledge of introducing drug detection equipment across Police jurisdictions in Australia.
Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing says the new equipment was tested by our officers, and independent forensic laboratory tested the accuracy of the roadside equipment, which were the critical components in procurement evaluation.
Officers are looking forward to starting roadside drug driving testing in an effort to detect and deter drivers who get behind the wheel impaired by drugs and ultimately risk their own lives and others on our roads.
"Many countries, including New Zealand, have seen a rise in the number of drivers testing positive for drugs in recent years, and the direct correlation to the number of people being seriously injured or killed on our roads.
Superintendent Greally confirmed after next month's launch in Wellington, roadside drug testing would scale up from April 2026 to operate nationwide by mid-2026.
"The focus now shifts to the implementation and our processes as our staff prepare for this crucial change. Information about the launch and what drivers can expect will be provided over the course of the next month.
"Police are working vigorously with various agencies and groups to identify and clarify any concerns regarding this impending change that will aim to save lives on our roads," Superintendent Greally says.
