8827 (2026). Tangi Utikere to the Minister of Transport

8827 (2026). Tangi Utikere to the Minister of Transport: Further to Reply 7172 (2026), on what basis were 71 individuals identified for immediate licence cancellation rather than being offered the opportunity to evidence their ability to drive safely on New Zealand roads; and what risk criteria were applied in making that determination?

Hon Chris Bishop: NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises me the 71 individuals whose licences were cancelled immediately did not respond to the initial notice that was mailed to them requesting evidence of the validity of their overseas licence and supporting documents, or to follow-up contact attempts using alternative contact methods. Under clause 82 of the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999, any person who does not respond or meet the requirements of a requirement issued under clause 77 has their licence revoked as a result. Two of these individuals subsequently provided additional information after being cancelled. One of these was confirmed as valid, and one was confirmed as providing falsified documentation.