Articles tagged with Road Safety

New Zealand Overhauls Driver Licensing to Make It Cheaper and Safer by 2027

2 weeks ago | 257 views

The New Zealand Government is updating the Graduated Driver Licensing System to make it more affordable and accessible for young drivers by removing the second practical test for a full licence, extending learner and restricted periods, and reducing overall costs by $80. Key safety measures include a zero-alcohol limit for all learner and restricted drivers, stronger oversight of training providers, and penalties for demerits that extend restricted periods. These changes, effective from January 25, 2027, aim to balance cost, efficiency, and road safety, with a review planned three years after implementation to assess their impact.

Tags: Chris Bishop New Zealand Graduated Driver Licensing System NZ Transport Agency Ministry of Transport learner licence restricted licence Class 1 licence driver training road safety

Drive Safe This Summer: NZ Government and Police Boost Road Safety Measures

2 months ago | 399 views

The New Zealand Government urges all drivers to prioritize road safety this summer, with Police actively enforcing laws against speeding, impaired driving, and seatbelt non-compliance. Transport Minister Chris Bishop highlights the introduction of roadside drug testing and investments in major transport projects to improve holiday travel conditions and reduce accidents. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to plan their trips using updated traffic prediction tools and to drive responsibly during the official Christmas–New Year holiday period.

Tags: Chris Bishop New Zealand Police road safety Transport Minister NZTA Ōtaki Takitimu North Link Hawke’s Bay Expressway Roads of National Significance

New Zealand to Introduce Tougher Drug Testing for Drivers: Key Drugs and Procedures Revealed

3 months ago | 443 views

New Zealand is implementing tougher enforcement against drug-impaired drivers by introducing roadside drug testing for THC, methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine using oral-fluid devices. The initiative aims to reduce the 30% of road deaths involving impairing drugs and improve road safety. Police will conduct quick roadside screening tests, followed by laboratory analysis for positive results, leading to driving prohibitions and infringement notices for non-compliance.

Tags: New Zealand Roads Government Transport Minister Chris Bishop Police Minister Mark Mitchell Road Safety Roadside Drug Testing THC Methamphetamine