Keeping New Zealand’s airports safe with a smarter fleet

After years of faithful service, the EDDU’s vehicles were no longer fit for purpose. Ageing models, rising maintenance costs, and inconsistent fit-outs were making it harder to keep both people and dogs safe and comfortable.

Older utes were too high for safe dog entry and exit, sedans lacked space for essential equipment, and cabin noise and heat were affecting animal welfare. Budgets were tight, and sustainability goals required lower-emission options.

The Civil Aviation Authority needed a smarter, more efficient fleet — one designed around the needs of both handlers and their canine partners.

Our approach

Through New Zealand’s All-of-Government (AoG) Fleet Services panel, Custom Fleet designed a complete operational leasing and vehicle replacement program tailored to the EDDU’s needs.

We partnered with specialist builder Wade Group and Hyundai New Zealand to create fit-for-purpose vehicles that prioritised safety, comfort, and reliability.

Each new vehicle was purpose-built to improve day-to-day operations and animal welfare, featuring:

• Dual dog pods with improved ventilation, lighting, and hygiene
• Temperature monitoring and control via Custom Fleet telematics
• Ergonomic layouts and reduced cabin noise for handler safety
• Standardised livery and clear roof markings for easy identification

The result

EDDU’s modernised fleet has transformed daily operations. Handlers now work in safer, quieter, more efficient vehicles — supporting both people and dogs in their critical work.

Operational leasing has also freed up capital and simplified ongoing fleet management, helping the CAA stay flexible and future-focused.

Hybrid models are projected to cut emissions by around 40%, aligning with the agency’s broader sustainability goals and paving the way for an electric future.

“Our collaboration with Custom Fleet has significantly enhanced our capacity to provide a modern, professional, and safe fleet for our people and their canine partners.”
— Lance McGhie, Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand

Explore the full story

View the case study: Explosive Detector Dog Unit (EDDU) Vehicle Replacement Program (503KB, PDF)

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