Watch: Tesla tests full self-driving on Auckland streets

Tesla has released a video showing its full self-driving (FSD) supervised system in operation on Auckland streets, following similar testing in Sydney in recent weeks — a sign the long wait for the technology in New Zealand and Australia may soon be over.

Tesla’s country director for Australia and New Zealand, Thom Drew, confirmed on LinkedIn that the company has been working with local authorities in both countries and that there are no regulatory barriers to the rollout.

“We have been working with local authorities across AU & NZ and there are no regulatory blockers for release. We are running through the final stages of validation prior to public release. Looking to start with HW4 on certain vehicles and then release in phases from there,” Drew said.

With the regulatory question answered, the timeline is now in Tesla’s hands.

Drew said the company is in the “final stages of validation” before a public release, likely involving local road testing and verification. He also confirmed the rollout will follow a phased approach similar to Tesla’s strategy in China.

The developments come as Tesla pushes forward globally with autonomous driving initiatives. In June, Tesla’s long-anticipated Robotaxi made its first public appearance in Austin, Texas, with video showing it navigating without a human driver behind the wheel.

Tesla has also completed what it says is the world’s first fully autonomous vehicle delivery, with a new Model Y driving itself from the company’s Texas factory to a customer’s home — without a single human inside or remote control from outside.

Tesla is currently operating a limited ride-hailing service in Austin, Texas, with specially equipped Model Ys with its FSD software and a safety driver positioned in the front passenger seat.

FSD Supervised testing in Auckland, New Zealand

Judder bars and all pic.twitter.com/GuEALcmjlW

— Tesla Australia & New Zealand (@TeslaAUNZ) August 8, 2025

FSD Supervised testing in Sydney, Australia pic.twitter.com/RYHiWs4vxx

— Tesla Australia & New Zealand (@TeslaAUNZ) July 17, 2025