Tesla showcases FSD tech on Auckland roads
Tesla has taken a significant step towards launching its Full Self-Driving (FSD) supervised system in New Zealand, releasing a video this week that shows the autonomous tech navigating real-world streets in Auckland. The footage follows similar trials in Sydney and suggests the long-awaited local release of FSD may be just around the corner.
Tesla’s Australia and New Zealand country director, Thom Drew, confirmed via LinkedIn that the company has been working closely with regulatory bodies in both countries. He stated that there are no regulatory hurdles preventing Tesla from rolling out the system locally.
“We have been working with local authorities across AU & NZ and there are no regulatory blockers for release,” said Drew. “We are running through the final stages of validation prior to public release. Looking to start with HW4 on certain vehicles and then release in phases from there.”
With the regulatory path cleared, the timeline for launch now rests solely with Tesla. The company is currently in the final stages of validation, which is expected to include additional local road testing and system verification.
The rollout will be phased, echoing the approach taken in other markets such as China. Tesla’s FSD system remains “supervised,” meaning a driver must remain alert and ready to take over, but it allows for hands-free operation in many scenarios, including urban driving.
The developments in New Zealand are part of Tesla’s wider global push to advance autonomous driving technologies. In June, the company publicly revealed its long-anticipated Robotaxi in Austin, Texas, and also completed what it claims to be the world’s first fully autonomous vehicle delivery — with a new Model Y driving itself from the Texas factory to a customer’s home without any human onboard or remote control.
Tesla is also running a limited ride-hailing service in Austin using FSD-equipped Model Ys, with safety drivers positioned in the passenger seat rather than behind the wheel.
With real-world demonstrations now taking place on Kiwi roads, it appears Tesla’s autonomous future is fast approaching for New Zealand drivers.
