AA Driver Licensing and Identity Services

Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Trust has partnered with AA to continue delivering driver licensing and identity services in Richmond.

From Monday 29 June 2026, the AA Driver Licensing and Identity Services in Richmond will relocate from the Tasman District Council office to our new premises at Richmond Mall (222 Queen Street, between House of Travel and BNZ).

For Te Kotahi, this partnership represents a natural extension of the work we have been doing since 2023 to support people through community driver licensing support and driver education programmes. We know that access to a driver licence can open doors to employment, education and greater independence, and we are proud to be strengthening our role in supporting those outcomes across Te Tauihu.

Te Kotahi will manage the premises, staffing and day-to-day operations of the Richmond service, while AA will continue to provide training, systems, technology, signage and operational support.

Customers will continue to have access to the same trusted AA Driver Licensing and Identity Services, with experienced customer service staff transferring to Te Kotahi as part of the transition.

We are excited to be working alongside AA to ensure these important services remain available locally and look forward to welcoming customers to our new Richmond Mall location from 29 June.

Frequently asked questions

Service availability

  • All the same services previously available at the TDC Service Centre will be available.

    Driver Licensing: Renewals, replacement licenses, and booking tests.

    Vehicle Services: Motor vehicle registration and issuing plates.

    Identification: SuperGold card processing, RealMe verification, Kiwi Access, and IRD number applications.

  • Te Kotahi will continue to provide the full range of AA driver licensing and identity services currently available in Richmond. Customers will still be able to access essential services such as driver licence renewals, learner licence theory testing, replacement licences and other AA licensing and identity services.

  • From Monday, 29 June 2026, AA driver licensing and identity services in Richmond will be available at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street, between House of Travel and BNZ.

    Until that date, customers should continue to access services through the existing Tasman District Council service centre.

    The move ensures Richmond residents can continue to access essential AA driver licensing and identity services locally, with experienced staff continuing to provide support from the new location.

  • Yes. Richmond residents will continue to be able to renew their driver licence locally. From Monday, 29 June 2026, AA driver licensing and identity services will be available at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street.

    The transition to Te Kotahi ensures that essential AA driver licensing and identity services remain available in Richmond, with experienced customer service staff continuing to support the community from the new location.

  • Yes. Learner licence theory testing will continue to be available in Richmond through the AA driver licensing service operated by Te Kotahi.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, customers will be able to access learner licence theory testing and other essential AA driver licensing and identity services at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street.

    The transition ensures these services remain available locally, with experienced staff continuing to support customers from the new location.

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to apply for a replacement driver licence through the AA driver licensing service in Richmond.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, this service will be available at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street. The transition to Te Kotahi does not change the range of AA driver licensing and identity services available to customers; it simply changes the service location.

    Experienced customer service staff will continue to support customers from the new site, helping to ensure a seamless transition.

  • All services currently offered will remain. Additionally, we are looking at introducing a service to convert overseas driver licenses.

  • We do not expect any disruption to customers. The AA driver licensing and identity service will continue to operate in Richmond, with services relocating from the Tasman District Council office to Te Kotahi's new premises at Richmond Mall from Monday, 29 June 2026.

    Te Kotahi and AA are working closely together to ensure a smooth transition. Existing experienced customer service staff will transfer to Te Kotahi and continue providing services, while AA will provide training, systems, technology and operational support.

    Customers can continue to access the same essential AA driver licensing and identity services, with the main change being the new location. Any temporary changes to service availability during the move will be communicated in advance.

Locations

  • From Monday, 29 June 2026, Richmond customers can access AA driver licensing and identity services at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street, between House of Travel and BNZ.

    The new location will provide the same essential AA driver licensing and identity services currently available in Richmond, with experienced customer service staff continuing to support customers from the new site.

    Customers in Motueka and Tākaka should continue to check AA's website or contact AA directly for information about services in their area.

  • Yes. AA driver licensing and identity services will continue to be available in Motueka.

    Following Tasman District Council's decision not to renew its contract with AA, AA has made interim arrangements for services to continue at the Motueka Service Centre while a new long-term provider is identified.

    Customers can continue to access AA driver licensing and identity services in Motueka as they do now. Any future changes will be communicated by AA.

  • Yes. AA driver licensing and identity services will continue to be available in Tākaka.

    AA will move to a mobile service model in Mohua/Golden Bay. This will ensure local residents continue to have access to essential driver licensing and identity services.

    AA will provide further information about how the mobile service will operate, including locations and availability.

  • Yes. AA driver licensing and identity services will continue to be available in Richmond.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, services will relocate from the Tasman District Council office to Te Kotahi's new premises at Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street, between House of Travel and BNZ.

    The partnership between Te Kotahi and AA ensures Richmond residents can continue to access essential driver licensing and identity services locally, with experienced customer service staff transferring to Te Kotahi and continuing to support the community from the new location.

Day-to-day transactions

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to renew their driver licence in person.

    Face-to-face service will remain available, with experienced customer service staff on hand to assist with licence renewals and other driver licensing and identity transactions.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, in-person services will be available at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street, ensuring Richmond residents can continue to access these services locally.

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to access eyesight testing as part of AA driver licensing services where it is required for a driver licence application or renewal.

    The transition to Te Kotahi does not change the range of AA driver licensing and identity services available in Richmond. Customers will continue to have access to the same services and processes they use today.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, these services will be available from Te Kotahi's new premises at Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street.

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to update their address through the AA driver licensing service in Richmond.

    The transition to Te Kotahi does not change driver licensing processes or the services available to customers. You can continue to update your address and complete other driver licensing transactions as you do now.

    From Monday, 29 June 2026, these services will be available at Te Kotahi's new premises in Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street.

  • The service centre at TDC has never offered this service, however, AA are looking at adding this service once we are settled and the necessary staff training is complete.

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to access the full range of AA driver licensing and identity services available in Richmond, including applications for exemptions and endorsements where these services are currently provided through the AA network.

    The transition to Te Kotahi does not change the services available to customers. It simply changes the location from which those services are delivered.

    If you are unsure about a specific exemption or endorsement, staff at the Richmond service centre will be able to assist or advise on the appropriate process.

  • No. Customers will continue to use the same AA and driver licensing forms and processes as they do now.

    The transition to Te Kotahi changes where the service is delivered, not the driver licensing requirements, forms or application processes. AA's systems, technology and operational support will remain in place to ensure a consistent experience for customers.

    If any forms or processes are updated in the future, these changes will be communicated through the usual AA channels.

Opening hours and appointments

  • The new Richmond service centre will offer longer opening hours than were previously available.

    From Monday 29 June 2026, the service will be open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, compared with the previous hours of 8.30am to 4.15pm.

    Opening hours:

    • Monday: 8am–5pm

    • Tuesday: 8am–5pm

    • Wednesday: 8am–5pm

    • Thursday: 8am–5pm

    • Friday: 8am–5pm

    • Saturday: Closed

    • Sunday: Closed

    The extended hours are intended to make it easier for customers to access driver licensing and identity services around work, study and family commitments.

  • Booking arrangements will remain the same.

    Customers should continue to book appointments for services that currently require them and access walk-in services where these are already available. The transition to Te Kotahi does not change AA's existing booking processes or requirements.

    If you are unsure whether an appointment is required for a particular service, please contact the Richmond service centre or AA before your visit.

  • No significant changes to wait times are expected as a result of the transition.

    Customers will continue to be supported by experienced staff using AA's established systems and processes, helping to ensure a consistent customer experience. In addition, the new Richmond service centre will offer extended opening hours, providing customers with greater flexibility when accessing services.

    While there may be some minor adjustments during the initial transition period as the service settles into its new location, we do not anticipate any long-term impact on wait times.

  • We do not expect any significant service interruptions during the transition and are working closely with AA to ensure the move is as seamless as possible.

    As with any relocation involving technology, systems and equipment, there is a possibility of some temporary disruptions while the new site is established. However, extensive planning is underway to minimise any impact on customers and maintain continuity of service.

    If any changes to service availability are required during the transition, customers will be informed in advance wherever possible. Our priority is to ensure the community continues to have access to essential AA driver licensing and identity services with minimal disruption.

Fees and payments

  • No. The cost of AA driver licensing and identity services is set by AA and the relevant regulatory authorities, not by the service delivery location. Customers accessing services through Te Kotahi in Richmond will pay the same fees as they would at any other AA driver licensing service centre.

    The transition to Te Kotahi is about ensuring continued local access to these important services, not increasing costs for customers.

  • Yes. Customers will continue to be able to pay for AA driver licensing and identity services using the usual payment methods, including EFTPOS and credit card.

    The transition to Te Kotahi does not change AA's payment systems or processes, helping to ensure a seamless experience for customers accessing services at the new Richmond Mall location.

Existing customers

  • No. If you already have a theory test booking, you do not need to take any action.

    Te Kotahi and AA are working together to ensure a smooth transition, and existing bookings will continue to be honoured. Customers should attend their appointment as scheduled and follow any instructions provided at the time of booking.

    If there are any changes affecting a booking, AA will contact customers directly. If you are unsure, you can contact AA for confirmation before your appointment.

  • No, business will continue as normal, just from a different location.

  • Item dYes. Customers do not need to take any action regarding their driver licensing records.

    The transition to Te Kotahi relates to the delivery location and day-to-day operation of the AA driver licensing and identity service in Richmond. Driver licensing records and information will continue to be managed through AA and the relevant licensing systems.

    For customers, the transition should be seamless, with the same essential services continuing to be available from the new Richmond Mall location.

  • No. Customers do not need to update any of their personal details as a result of this change.

    The transition relates only to the location and operation of the AA driver licensing and identity service in Richmond. Your driver licence records and information will continue to be managed through AA and the relevant licensing systems as they are today.

    If you need to update your personal details, such as your address, you can continue to do so through the usual driver licensing processes.

Accessibility

  • Ensuring services are accessible to all members of the community, including older people, is an important priority for Te Kotahi.

    The new Richmond service will continue to provide face-to-face support for customers who prefer to complete their driver licensing transactions in person. Experienced customer service staff will be available to guide customers through the process and answer any questions they may have.

    Located in Richmond Mall, the new site is centrally located and designed to be easy to access, helping ensure older residents can continue to access essential AA driver licensing and identity services close to home.

  • ICustomers who prefer not to use online services will continue to have access to face-to-face support at the Richmond service centre.

    Experienced customer service staff will be available to assist with driver licensing and identity transactions, answer questions and guide customers through the process. The transition to Te Kotahi does not change the availability of in-person service and support.

    The partnership with AA is designed to ensure all customers, regardless of their level of confidence with online services, can continue to access the help they need in a welcoming and supportive environment.

  • Yes. Face-to-face support will continue to be available at the new Richmond service centre.

    Customers will be able to access in-person assistance for AA driver licensing and identity services, with experienced customer service staff available to answer questions, provide guidance and help complete transactions.

    Maintaining accessible, face-to-face service is an important part of the partnership between Te Kotahi and AA, ensuring customers can continue to receive personal support when they need it.

The change in service providers

  • Earlier this year, Tasman District Council decided not to renew its contract with AA for the delivery of driver licensing and identity services.

    Following that decision, AA sought advice from the Driving Change Network on organisations that could continue delivering the service in Richmond and ensure continuity for customers. The Driving Change Network recommended Te Kotahi, and AA subsequently partnered with Te Kotahi to continue delivering the service locally.

    As a result, from 29 June 2026, AA driver licensing and identity services in Richmond will relocate to Te Kotahi's new premises at Richmond Mall.

    The focus of the partnership is to ensure the community continues to have access to these important services, with experienced staff, extended opening hours, and minimal disruption to customers.

  • No. Customers do not need to take any action as a result of this change.

    If you need to access AA driver licensing or identity services after 29 June 2026, simply visit the new Te Kotahi location at Richmond Mall, 222 Queen Street, Richmond. The same essential services will continue to be available, supported by experienced staff and AA systems.

    Any important updates relating to the transition will be communicated in advance, but for most customers, the only change will be the service location.

  • Following Tasman District Council's decision not to renew its contract, AA sought advice from the Driving Change Network on organisations that would be well placed to continue delivering driver licensing services in Richmond.

    The Driving Change Network recommended Te Kotahi, recognising its experience delivering community driver licensing support and driver education programmes across Te Tauihu since 2023.

    Te Kotahi was also well positioned to support a smooth transition, with a strong local presence, alignment with the goals of improving access to licensing services, and the ability to work alongside AA to maintain service continuity for the community.

    The partnership combines Te Kotahi's local knowledge and community connections with AA's established systems, training, technology and operational support, ensuring customers continue to receive the same trusted AA services.

  • Te Kotahi has been delivering community driver licensing support and driver education programmes across Te Tauihu since 2023, helping people gain the knowledge, skills and support they need to progress through the driver licensing system.

    This experience has given Te Kotahi a strong understanding of the barriers some people face in obtaining a licence and the importance of accessible, community-based services.

    Through its partnership with AA, Te Kotahi will combine this local experience with AA's established driver licensing systems, training, technology and operational support. In addition, experienced customer service staff will transfer to Te Kotahi and continue delivering services to the public, helping to ensure a seamless transition for customers.

  • The biggest benefit for customers is continuity. The partnership between Te Kotahi and AA ensures that essential driver licensing and identity services remain available locally in Richmond, with experienced customer service staff continuing to deliver support from a new, centrally located site at Richmond Mall.

    Customers will continue to access the same trusted AA services, supported by AA's systems, technology and operational expertise. The transition has been designed to be as seamless as possible, with minimal disruption and no action required from customers.

    The partnership also strengthens the long-term sustainability of local driver licensing services and Te Kotahi's wider community driver licensing programmes, helping to improve access to licensing support across the region.

  • Maintaining a high-quality customer experience is a key priority for both Te Kotahi and AA.

    Experienced customer service staff will transfer to Te Kotahi and continue delivering services to the public, ensuring valuable knowledge and expertise are retained. AA will also provide training, systems, technology, signage and ongoing operational support to ensure services continue to meet the same standards customers expect.

    By combining experienced local staff with AA's established processes and support, the partnership is designed to provide a seamless transition and maintain a consistent, high-quality service for customers.

  • Te Kotahi will hold the AA service contract, rather than TDC, and the service will move to a new location at Richmond Mall. Aside from that, there will no changes to the service in Richmond.

  • No, this is just a simple change of service providers due to TDC’s choice not to renew its contract.

  • We do not expect any significant disruption during the transition.

    Te Kotahi and AA are working closely together to ensure a smooth handover of services, with experienced customer service staff transferring to Te Kotahi and continuing to support customers from the new Richmond Mall location.

    Our goal is to make the transition as seamless as possible, so customers can continue to access AA driver licensing and identity services with minimal interruption. Any temporary changes to service availability during the move will be communicated in advance.

  • From Monday, 29 June 2026, AA driver licensing and identity services in Richmond will be available from Te Kotahi's new premises at Richmond Mall, located at 222 Queen Street.

    Customers seeking AA driver licensing and identity services should visit the new Richmond Mall location. Information will be available to help direct customers to the new site, and details of the change will be communicated ahead of the transition.

  • Customers who need assistance with AA driver licensing and identity services can contact the Richmond service centre directly once the new location opens, or contact AA through its usual customer support channels.

    Te Kotahi and AA are committed to providing a high-quality service and working together to resolve any issues as quickly as possible.

    Further contact details for the Richmond service centre will be made available before the service opens at Richmond Mall on 29 June 2026.

  • Te Kotahi is committed to providing a high standard of customer service. Any complaints or feedback relating to services delivered at the Richmond site will be managed through established customer service processes and, where appropriate, in partnership with AA.

    Customers are encouraged to raise any concerns directly so they can be addressed promptly and fairly. Information on how to provide feedback or make a complaint will be available at the Richmond service centre and through relevant customer service channels.

  • Te Kotahi and AA are working closely together to ensure the transition is completed smoothly and on schedule.

    While we do not anticipate any significant delays, customers will be kept informed if there are any changes that affect service availability. Our priority is to minimise disruption and ensure the community continues to have access to essential AA driver licensing and identity services.

    Any updates will be communicated through appropriate channels, including customer notices and online information, to ensure customers have the latest information about service availability.

  • Following Tasman District Council's decision not to renew its contract for the delivery of AA driver licensing and identity services, AA needed to identify a provider that could continue delivering the service in Richmond within a relatively short timeframe.

    As part of that process, AA sought advice from the Driving Change Network on organisations that would be well placed to deliver the service. The Driving Change Network recommended Te Kotahi based on its experience delivering community driver licensing support and driver education programmes across Te Tauihu since 2023.

    AA then worked directly with Te Kotahi to establish the partnership and ensure continuity of service for the community.

    The priority throughout the process was to maintain local access to essential driver licensing and identity services and ensure a smooth transition for customers.

  • No,  all data is all stored within the AA systems which won't change.