Government to restrict access to vehicle register

The Government is moving to restrict access to the New Zealand Motor Vehicle Register.

Transport Safety Minister Harry Duynhoven said that the register, which for a small fee allows people to access details about a motor vehicle, its owners and their address, was often being misused.

There were reported instances of people using the register for crime and the direct marketing industry using it to compile mailing lists.

"A great deal of public concern has been expressed about how easily the register can be accessed and that such access is regarded as a breach of an individual's privacy."

Mr Duynhoven said officials were working on a proposal, which could be introduced as legislation before the end of the year.

- NZPA