Key Takeaways
- The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has identified a preferred supplier to independently analyze breath screening test data provided by police.
- The analysis aims to detect any irregularities in the data, particularly those related to tests conducted while officers were stationary.
- NZTA is working closely with police to resolve the matter and verify the accuracy of breath testing data.
- Delivery-dependent road policing funding for the first quarter of the financial year has been paused until the investigation is complete.
- Police continue to deliver high levels of breath testing activity and will maintain a high-visibility presence over the summer period.
Introduction to the Issue
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has been working to address concerns surrounding irregularities in breath testing data. In an update from October 27, NZTA announced that it had identified a preferred supplier to independently analyze the breath screening test data file provided by police. This independent analysis will help identify whether any further irregularities are discernible, beyond those already detected by NZ Police. The issue revolves around 30,000 breath tests related to an algorithm that determined if a second test took place within 90 seconds of the first, while the distance between the two indicated a speed of more than 20km/h.
Limitations in Detecting Irregularities
In an update to Bishop on October 13, NZTA said NZ Police could not determine if any irregular testing was undertaken while officers were stationary. Acting Deputy Commissioner Mike Johnson earlier stated that while the algorithm had "proven effective" in identifying tests conducted while the device was in motion, "there remains limitations in detecting all forms of irregular testing, including those undertaken in specific locations". This limitation highlights the need for independent analysis to ascertain the true scale of irregularities. NZTA is supporting and encouraging NZ Police to identify options for removing these limitations and to look beyond current detection methods.
Response from Authorities
In a statement to RNZ, Bishop reiterated that the matter was "very concerning" and said it was essential that it was resolved. NZTA has kept Bishop regularly updated as the work has progressed, and independent analysis is underway. An NZTA spokesperson told RNZ that the independent analysis was expected to be completed early next year. NZTA has requested that police provide assurance that delivery numbers for breath screening tests and the wider road policing activity measures for the 2024/25 financial year and Q1 of the 2025/26 financial year are correct. Johnson earlier stated that NZTA had notified NZ Police that delivery-dependent road policing funding for the first quarter of the financial year had been paused, while police’s investigation into irregularities in breath testing data was ongoing.
Ongoing Investigation and Funding
Police continue to work closely with NZTA to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. They acknowledge the importance of accurate data and legitimate activity. Once the data is confirmed as accurate, the funding will be authorized. In the meantime, police continue to deliver "very high levels of breath testing activity", and they will maintain a high-visibility presence over the summer period. The investigation and independent analysis are crucial steps in ensuring the integrity of breath testing data and the effectiveness of road policing measures. By working together, NZTA and NZ Police aim to address the concerns surrounding irregularities and provide a safer and more reliable road environment for all users.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the issue of irregularities in breath testing data is a concerning one that requires a thorough and independent investigation. NZTA and NZ Police are working closely together to resolve the matter and verify the accuracy of the data. The independent analysis is expected to be completed early next year, and NZTA will have more to say on the matter at that time. In the meantime, police will continue to deliver high levels of breath testing activity, and the public can expect a high-visibility presence over the summer period. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach, NZTA and NZ Police are committed to ensuring the integrity of breath testing data and promoting road safety in New Zealand.
