IR-01-26-6278
17 March 2026
Katy B
[FYI request #33787 email]
Dear Katy
Request for information
Thank you for your Official Information Act 1982 (OIA) request received 20 February
2026, in which you asked about the oral fluid testing regime. I have answered each part
of your request below:
I am very interested in the roadside drug testing that has been rolled out in
Wel ington. I note a release today stating that seven infringement notices have
been issued. I request, under the Official Information Act 1982:
-
A breakdown on whether the seven infringements announced on 20/2/26
were due to a positive drug result or refusal of a drug test
The seven-infringement notices issued included two positive drug results fol owing
laboratory analysis and five for refusal/failure to undergo the roadside drug screening
process.
-
If positive, a breakdown on which substances led to an infringement
Two infringements were issued following laboratory analysis that found both drivers to
have Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) above the threshold.
-
How many, if any, infringements had a medical defence
No medical defences have been applied for since the start of drug driving testing on 15
December 2025.
-
Any comments on how rol ing out standardised roadside drug testing may
unfairly disadvantage medicinal cannabis users.
Police acknowledge concerns about potential impacts on medicinal cannabis users
however, the testing thresholds were designed to detect recent use for specified
impairing substances at a level where it is unsafe to drive. Thresholds have not been set
to detect for historical or passive use. A medical defence is available for drivers who
return a positive laboratory result for a prescribed medication. Further information about
medical defence can be found on our website:
https://www.police.govt.nz/advice-
services/infringement-services/medical-defence.
Police National Headquarters 180 Molesworth Street. PO Box 3017, Wellington 6140, New Zealand.
Telephone: 04 474 9499. Fax: 04 498 7400. www.police.govt.nz
If you are not satisfied with the way I have responded to your request, you have the right
under section 28(3) of the OIA to ask the Ombudsman to review my decisions.
Information on how to do this is available online at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz.
Yours sincerely
Superintendent Steve Greal y
Director: Road Policing
New Zealand Police
