Police have selected the detection device officers will use for roadside drugs screening when the scheme kicks off next month.
Starting in the Wellington District from mid-December, officers will begin screening for THC (cannabis), methamphetamine (meth), MDMA (ecstasy) and cocaine. The scheme would scale up from April 2026 to operate nationwide by mid-2026.
Today, it was confirmed that the Securetec DrugWipe 3 S device, from Australian-based drug detection and life science provider Pathtech, would be used for the testing.
Pathtech would also supply police with oral fluid collection kits for saliva samples to be sent for laboratory analysis.
"Pathtech has extensive knowledge of introducing drug detection equipment across Police jurisdictions in Australia," police said.
Superintendent Steve Greally, director of road policing, said officers had tested the technology, and an independent forensic laboratory had tested the accuracy of the roadside equipment.
"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."
Information about the launch and what drivers could expect would be provided over the next month.
"The focus now shifts to the implementation and our processes as our staff prepare for this crucial change," Greally said.
“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."
How roadside drug testing will work
Under the new regime, police will be able to stop any motor vehicle at any time to screen the driver for the presence of drugs.
The first roadside screening test will involve a quick tongue swipe, which will take several minutes. Most drivers who return a negative test result will be free to go within around five minutes.
If the test is positive, officers will take a saliva sample for laboratory analysis. While the roadside device detects four key drugs, the laboratory can test for up to 25 substances.
It will be followed by a second roadside screening test. If the test is positive, the driver will be prohibited from driving for 12 hours to address any immediate road-safety risk. Drivers who return a positive laboratory result will be issued an infringement notice.
Drivers who refuse or fail to comply with a roadside drug test will also be issued an infringement notice.
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