Source: Radio New Zealand
Police will start testing for THC, methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine using the new oral-fluid testing devices. RNZ / Marika Khabazi
Police have confirmed a deal with an Australian company to provide detection devices for roadside drug-testing.
Roadside testing for four types of drugs will begin in Wellington next month, with a nationwide rollout by mid-2026.
Police will start testing for THC, methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine using the new oral-fluid testing devices.
Director of road policing Superintendent Steve Greally said Australian-based company Pathtech Pty Ltd would supply the devices, as well as oral fluid collection kits to collect samples to be sent for laboratory analysis.
The Securetec DrugWipe 3S devices were used in police jurisdictions throughout Australia, as well as other overseas nations.
The DrugWipe detects the presence of drugs in saliva at or above a threshold that detects current or recent use.
Drivers will take an initial swab test, with a positive result triggering a second test. If confirmed, the driver faces an immediate 12-hour driving ban, and their initial sample is sent to a laboratory for evidential testing.
Greally said it followed an extensive global procurement process, and Pathtech had “extensive knowledge” of introducing drug detection equipment across Australia.
“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,” he said.
“The focus now shifts to the implementation and our processes as our staff prepare for this crucial change.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
