Roadside drug testing is being rolled out nationwide, with police set to expand the programme across New Zealand by July 1.
The programme began in Wellington in December last year before expanding into Central, Tasman, Waikato, Counties Manukau, Auckland and Canterbury police districts.
As of May 19, Police had carried out nearly 1500 roadside drug screening tests across five districts, resulting in 52 positive tests.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop says around 30% of all road deaths now involve an impairing drug.
“Drug-impaired drivers are a menace on our roads.
“This is about fixing a gap in our road safety system. Police have long been able to stop and breath test drivers for alcohol. It makes sense that they should also be able to screen drivers for impairing drugs.”
Police Minister Mark Mitchell says police have used operational experience from the first phase of the rollout to train staff nationwide.
“They are on track to have nationwide roadside drug testing coverage by 1 July 2026.
“So far we’re seeing a roadside positivity rate of 3.6%, which is broadly in line with what police see from roadside alcohol breath testing.”
“It is too early to draw firm national trends while the rollout is still expanding, but police will continue monitoring results to inform enforcement activity and focus efforts where they can do the most to reduce harm.”
Police roadside screening tests detect THC, methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine.
Drivers who return a positive roadside screening test must provide a saliva sample for laboratory analysis and undertake a second roadside screening test. If the second test is positive, the driver is prohibited from driving for 12 hours.
Laboratory testing checks for up to 25 substances, with infringement notices issued following positive results. Drivers who refuse or fail to comply with roadside drug testing can also receive infringement notices.
