Police Recruitment Policy Relating To Applicants With Drink Driving Charges
New Zealand Police National News Release
18 March 2008
New Zealand Police has noticed an increase in the number of applicants who have received diversions relating to drink
driving offences, based on the premise that convictions for these offences could prevent them from commencing a policing
career.
In response, Police would like to clarify its position on this matter.
Police will not consider applications from prospective recruits who have been charged for drink driving offences. This
includes individuals who have received diversions for the offences or who have been discharged due to technicalities.
Consideration is being given as to whether or not individuals who have youth drink driving charges should be considered
under a separate policy. Reasons for this consideration include the lower blood/alcohol limit and the fact that offences
may relate to incidents which took place a considerable time before an employment application and/or when the
individuals involved were much younger. Until a final decision on this matter has been made, all applicants with drink
driving charges will not be considered for employment as police officers.
ENDS