Police own only 28 automated number plate recognition cameras themselves but access thousands of privately-owned cameras hosted on two private networks. File photo Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
A full audit of how police officers use number plate recognition cameras is taking place, says Police Minister Chris Hipkins.
Police have admitted to twice flagging vehicles as stolen when they were not stolen, to trigger the surveillance system to track the vehicles' plates.
Hipkins said the new audit was "a big piece of work" and he expected a briefing on it in December.
Police had already said they were reviewing training guidelines, he said.
Police also said they have reminded staff about the correct way to use the system.
They issued new policies and rules about this the week before last.
Police own only 28 automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras themselves but access thousands of privately-owned cameras hosted on two private networks.