NZTA streamlines road safety camera management with new cloud system

Verra Mobility has implemented a cloud-based infringement and case management system with the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) to improve processing of road safety camera incidents across New Zealand.

NZTA assumed responsibility for managing road safety cameras and incident file processing from NZ Police, identifying inadequacies in its legacy back-office ICT solution for supporting current operational needs.

The agency subsequently decided to procure a more suitable information and communications technology system.

Verra Mobility was selected to deliver and deploy Alcyon, a cloud-based infringement and case management platform that integrates with multiple camera vendors and key government systems such as the Motor Vehicle Register, Traffic Offence History, Ministry of Justice, and the Common Payments System.

The system's implementation formed the backbone of NZTA's road safety strategy.

As described by NZTA, Alcyon provides a modern, scalable, and secure solution to support NZTA's responsibilities in road safety and enforcement. It sits at the centre of initiatives focused on safer roads, safer drivers, safer vehicles, and a revised approach to speed limits.

The project progressed quickly, with deployment completed within six months. The delivery process involved daily engagement between Verra Mobility and NZTA, demonstration of system features, timely introduction of requested changes, and prioritisation informed by operational requirements.

The platform is regularly updated with new features to maintain operational efficiency and deliver on road safety objectives. Ongoing system development is informed by evolving user requirements and the broader framework of national road safety policies.

"This project was not just a technology upgrade, but a huge step forward in supporting public safety. By modernising how we manage and process road safety camera incidents, we are ensuring faster and more accurate enforcement that ultimately will help save lives. We now have the agility and scalability to keep pace with changing demands while maintaining a strong focus on safety outcomes," said Aaron Pratley, Domain Lead Transport Services and IoT NZTA.

The NZTA now works with a system intended to be adaptable to future requirements and provides increased efficiency, scalability, and flexibility. The initiative demonstrates how cooperation between public sector agencies and private technology providers can contribute to national safety goals and public service delivery.

"Delivering a fit-for-purpose solution within a tight timeframe, and with critical operational implications, required a strong partnership grounded in trust, collaboration, and a shared vision. The ability to move quickly without compromising on quality is a testament to the strength of the relationship between our teams. Together we have built a platform that meets today's needs and is ready to evolve with NZTA in the future," said Steven Crutchfield, Senior VP and MD, International, Verra Mobility.

The initial implementation of the Alcyon platform is described by those involved as only the starting phase.

Scheduled updates and feature enhancements are planned to ensure the management system remains aligned with New Zealand's shifting operational needs and safety strategies. The decision to replace the legacy system was shaped by NZTA's assessment of its operational needs and requirements for future growth and compliance, alongside an expectation for integration with external government agencies.

The collaboration between NZTA and Verra Mobility was characterised by regular communication and adaptability to emerging needs, reflecting broader public sector objectives for efficiency in project delivery. This approach is noted by industry observers as being aligned with international movements towards integration of cloud-based technologies in road safety programs.

The implemented system now enables NZTA to manage incident files generated by safety cameras in a more streamlined fashion, potentially accelerating enforcement and response activities and supporting road safety objectives outlined by the agency.