Virtual reality driving simulator CoDrivr won the Supreme and Innovative Use of Technology awards at the Economic Development New Zealand Best Practice Awards last week.

Hailed as a first in New Zealand, the Mid and South Canterbury project was initiated by Venture Timaru in 2021 with support from several partners including Ashburton District Council.

Group Manager Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said the goal for the project was to deliver the simulator into every secondary school across Mid and South Canterbury.

“We know that driver licensing can be a barrier to employment and independence, so it’s great to provide something that gives young people and newcomers confidence to get started”, he said.

A training unit is well used by young people and community groups in Te Kete Tuhinga, Council’s new library.

Group Manager Infrastructure and Open Spaces Neil McCann said the simulator uses footage shot from local roads, to help people relate to a real-world environment.

“The learning modules are tailored to key areas of road safety concern for young and new drivers in provincial Canterbury”, he said.

“We’re proud to have supported a project that has been recognised and will now roll out across New Zealand.”

The virtual reality technology was developed by Gfactor, Dunedin.