Groups warn of massive delays over NZ driver license tests

As New Zealand prepares to kick the Alert Level Covid-19 system to the curb this Friday (December 3), various groups have issued warnings that those planning to sit driver license tests should prepare for big delays.

The position mainly applies to those in Auckland. In a statement, VTNZ country manager Greg O’Connor confirmed that the group has had to postpone approximately 22,000 driving tests in the country’s biggest city alone following the arrival of the Delta variant of Covid-19.

He added that only those who are fully vaccinated and have a valid My Vaccine Pass will be able to sit their tests. They will also need to wear a face mask during the testing itself.

VTNZ and the Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency are currently working together on a scheme that will enable those who are unvaccinated to be able to do driving tests in the future. 

“Our message to customers is make sure you’ve got your vaccine pass ready and ensure you book early. It’s going to be a very busy summer,” said O’Connor. 

“Safety is our top priority. We will be managing the significant demand for tests while still ensuring staff and customers are safe when they are out on the road.”

The country manager added that VTNZ will be increasing its footprint in order to be able to deal with the added demand. It plans to add more testing stations to its roster in order to deal with the upcoming horde.

Waka Kotahi director of land transport, Kane Patena, stressed the importance of patience amid the expected delays. 

“VTNZ and Waka Kotahi have rescheduled tests for all customers who were impacted by the lockdown, and encourage customers looking to make new bookings to think ahead,” said Patena.