Truck Drivers Required to Re-Take Licenses
The Highbrook branch of Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) has ceased providing practical driver licence tests but continues to offer other services. Times photo High Failure Rate in Re-Tests Almost 50% of drivers required to retake their licence exams due to the VTNZ Highbrook scandal have not pass
The Highbrook branch of Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) has ceased providing practical driver licence tests but continues to offer other services. Times photo
High Failure Rate in Re-Tests
Almost 50% of drivers required to retake their licence exams due to the VTNZ Highbrook scandal have not passed their tests. This troubling data emerges as investigations into alleged bribery by former testing staff proceed.
Authorities Take Action
The Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has communicated with all 322 impacted drivers, mandating that they complete an on-road safety assessment by December 12 to keep their licences.
Testing Outcomes
As of December 5, 230 individuals had taken the retest. Of those, 136 were successful while 94 did not pass. The NZTA representative informed the Times that these additional tests were conducted between September 12 and December 5.
Background of the Scandal
The need for retesting stems from allegations that five examiners at VTNZ’s Highbrook location accepted bribes to allow certain individuals to pass their tests unlawfully, enabling those who would have otherwise failed to gain full or restricted licences.
Investigation Progress
The authorities received initial reports regarding the alleged misconduct in May. In response, VTNZ terminated the employment of the five involved employees and suspended their testing endorsements. The Highbrook branch has halted practical licence examinations but is still operational for other services.
Ongoing Investigation
The NZTA has stated they will continue reaching out to every driver who took their test with the dismissed staff, requiring them to prove their competence through a complimentary on-road evaluation.
Serious Fraud Office Involvement
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is currently reviewing the allegations. According to Counties Manukau CIB Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, police have completed preliminary inquiries and are now coordinating with the SFO on the matter.
VTNZ’s Response
Greg O’Connor, VTNZ’s country manager, emphasized that the company has taken urgent measures to address the issue and maintains a strict stance against dishonesty, implementing enhanced security protocols. All affected drivers are required to complete their retests by December 12.