New Zealand Police have ordered all frontline officers to complete mandatory training after an internal review uncovered tens of thousands of alcohol breath tests that were falsely recorded.
Last week, RNZ reported that around 120 officers were under investigation following the discovery of discrepancies in the country’s breath testing data.
Relieving Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers said police were aware that the revelations had impacted public trust in its alcohol testing regime.
“We are committed to putting this right,” Rogers said. “As part of this commitment to both our community and our partners, the police executive has made the decision to require all constabulary staff to complete an online training module for alcohol breath testing,” as quoted by 1News.
The training, which is mandatory, must be completed within the next four weeks. Rogers said the module will reinforce proper procedures and expectations, ensuring all officers understand their responsibilities ahead of the busy summer period, 1News reported.
The issue first came to light when police identified anomalies in breath testing data in August this year. An audit of 4.6 million tests conducted between July 2024 and August 2025 revealed some were logged without any driver involvement.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Michael Johnson previously told RNZ that a wider review of 5.3 million tests carried out between July 2024 and September 2025 found 30,961 tests were falsely or erroneously recorded, reported 1News.
Johnson said the irregularities were detected through existing data monitoring systems, allowing police to “proactively manage” the situation, 1News reported.
The police say they are working to ensure the integrity of their alcohol testing programme, which plays a crucial role in road safety enforcement.