A car will drive itself throught the streets of Tauranga today - a first for New Zealand.
Self Driving Car Photo: Volvo
It was a joint project between the Traffic Institute, Transport Agency and the Ministry of Transport.
The car, made by Volvo, will drive 10km to 15km on public roads alongside other motorists.
An automated system allows the car to accelerate, brake and steer but a driver will be required to interact with the vehicle and intervene if necessary.
Self Driving Car Photo: Volvo
Traffic Institute vice president John Gottler said driverless cars would reduce road deaths by making driving simple.
"Especially on commuter routes and inter-city where people are falling asleep, but also the boredom areas of driving need to be addressed," he said.
"These vehicles are highly intelligent, they're available now and they're only going to get better."