NZ set to lead in DNA evidence

Wayne Mapp. Photo / Mark Mitchell

New Zealand is set to be a world leader in processing DNA evidence.

New technology is being brought in to reduce the time it takes to process a test from 28 days to five.

Minister of Research and Technology, Wayne Mapp, said forensics are increasingly playing a fundamental role in getting people to court, and getting convictions.

"This is a huge improvement," he told Newstalk ZB.

"We'll be world leading. Five days is way ahead of the United States, way ahead of Australia."

Dr Mapp said it's important in cases which currently take longer to solve, such as theft from cars and burglaries.

He said the new capabilities will enable the police get more convictions, and be a deterrent to would-be criminals.

- NEWSTALK ZB