Police Minister Stuart Nash has confirmed the police watchdog has investigated deputy commissioner Mike Clement.
Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas
Clement has been widely tipped to replace Police Commissioner Mike Bush, who leaves the role next month.
Nash would not answer RNZ's questions as to whether the investigation was holding up the appointment process.
"I'm aware that the IPCA is looking into something, into Mike Clement, but I'll leave it at that," he said.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Independent Police Conduct Authority said the investigation "has just been concluded" and a report would not be made public.
The IPCA said it would be making no further comment.