For many New Zealand drivers, the first sign of trouble is no longer flashing lights in the rear-view mirror. Instead, it’s an unexpected letter or digital notice arriving days later, informing them they’ve been fined — automatically. In 2025, instant traffic camera fines are now fully live across more parts of New Zealand, and the impact is being felt nationwide.
Phone use behind the wheel and other momentary distractions are now being detected with unprecedented accuracy. For drivers already juggling rising living costs, these fines — and the accompanying demerit points — are proving costly, surprising, and sometimes licence-threatening.
Here’s what’s changed, how the system works, and what every driver should understand right now.
Why Instant Camera Fines Are Being Rolled Out
Road safety authorities have been clear: traditional enforcement methods were not enough.
Instant camera fines are designed to:
- Reduce distracted driving
- Catch offences that occur briefly but dangerously
- Increase consistency in enforcement
- Remove the need for police to witness every offence
- Deter risky behaviour through certainty of detection
Officials argue the goal is prevention, not punishment — but the penalties are very real.
What’s Changing / What’s New in 2025
The biggest change is automation.
Key updates include:
- Cameras that detect mobile phone use while driving
- Automatic fine issuance without roadside stops
- Integration with demerit point systems
- Faster processing and notification
- Expansion into more urban and high-risk areas
Drivers may now be fined without ever being pulled over.
How Phone Detection Cameras Work
The new camera systems are highly advanced.
They use:
- High-resolution imaging
- Multiple angles to capture the driver area
- Artificial intelligence to detect phone handling
- Cross-checking with vehicle registration databases
The cameras can identify:
- Phones held in the hand
- Phones resting on laps
- Texting, scrolling, or calling
- Use at traffic lights or in slow traffic
Brief handling still counts as an offence.
What Counts as Illegal Phone Use
Many drivers assume short use is allowed. It is not.
Illegal actions include:
- Holding a phone for any reason
- Touching a phone while stopped in traffic
- Using a phone on speaker while holding it
- Looking down at a phone in your lap
Hands-free use is only legal if the phone is fully mounted and not touched.
Fines and Demerit Points Explained
The penalties associated with camera-detected phone use are significant.
Current consequences include:
- A monetary fine
- Demerit points added to your licence
- Increased insurance risk
- Higher chance of licence suspension if repeated
Multiple camera fines can accumulate quickly without drivers realising.
Why Drivers Are Being Caught More Often
Detection has improved dramatically.
Reasons include:
- Cameras operate continuously
- No reliance on officer discretion
- Wider coverage across intersections and roads
- Night and day operation
- Reduced ability to argue “momentary use”
Drivers often underestimate how visible their actions are.
Real Stories From NZ Drivers
In Hamilton, delivery driver Ben says the fine came as a shock. “I was stopped at the lights and picked up my phone for a second. The fine arrived a week later.”
In Christchurch, office worker Maia explains how points added up. “I didn’t realise two camera fines meant I was close to suspension.”
These experiences are becoming increasingly common.
Government and Police Position
Authorities maintain the system is about safety.
A transport spokesperson said, “Mobile phone distraction significantly increases crash risk. Automated enforcement ensures fairness and consistency.”
Officials also note that warnings are no longer effective deterrents.
Impact on Professional and Low-Income Drivers
The effects are not evenly felt.
Groups most impacted include:
- Delivery and rideshare drivers
- Tradespeople on the road all day
- Low-income workers unable to absorb fines
- Young drivers with limited demerit margins
Licence loss can directly affect employment.
Common Myths About Camera Fines
Several misconceptions persist.
False beliefs include:
- “It only applies while moving”
- “You’ll be warned first”
- “Cameras can’t see inside cars clearly”
- “You can argue it was brief”
None of these protect drivers from fines.
Can You Challenge an Instant Camera Fine
Drivers do have the right to challenge, but success is limited.
Challenges may apply if:
- The image is unclear
- The driver is misidentified
- The object is not a phone
- There is a technical error
Most fines are upheld if evidence is clear.
Why This Is Affecting Licence Loss Rates
Automated enforcement increases volume.
Key reasons licence losses are rising:
- Faster accumulation of demerit points
- Drivers unaware they’ve committed multiple offences
- Delayed notification leading to repeat behaviour
- Zero tolerance for distraction
Some drivers lose licences without ever speaking to police.
What You Should Know Right Now
As of 2025:
- Phone detection cameras are live
- Fines are issued automatically
- Demerit points apply
- Brief phone use still counts
- Enforcement is expanding
Assuming you won’t be caught is no longer realistic.
Practical Steps Drivers Can Take
To avoid fines:
- Set navigation before driving
- Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” modes
- Keep phones out of reach
- Mount phones securely if using hands-free
- Treat traffic lights as driving time
Changing habits is cheaper than paying fines.
Why Authorities Say Compliance Is the Only Solution
Officials stress that technology will only improve.
Future developments may include:
- Wider camera coverage
- Faster notification systems
- Integration with other traffic enforcement
- Increased penalties for repeat offenders
The message is clear: adapt or face consequences.
Q&A: Instant Traffic Camera Fines in NZ
1. Are phone detection cameras active now?
Yes, in multiple regions.
2. Can I be fined at traffic lights?
Yes.
3. Do demerit points apply?
Yes.
4. Are fines issued instantly?
They are processed automatically.
5. Will I be warned first?
No.
6. Is hands-free always legal?
Only if the phone is not handled.
7. Can passengers use phones?
Yes, passengers are not restricted.
8. Can I challenge a fine?
Yes, but evidence must support it.
9. Are cameras accurate?
Highly.
10. Are they operating at night?
Yes.
11. Do they affect insurance?
They can.
12. Are professional drivers targeted?
No, but they are more exposed.
13. Is brief use allowed?
No.
14. Are more cameras coming?
Yes.
15. What’s the safest approach?
No phone handling at all while driving.
