Six million streak through SmartGate

Six million streak through SmartGate

SmartGate, Customs’ automated passenger processing system, reached a new milestone of over six million users today.

Group Manager Border Operations, Paul Campbell says since the introduction of SmartGate in December 2009 it has become increasingly popular with over 67 percent of those eligible now using the automated system on arrival.

“Each week we are seeing approximately 50,000 people use SmartGate when arriving or departing New Zealand,” says Mr Campbell.

SmartGate uses the electronic information in ePassports and facial recognition technology to perform customs and immigration checks. The technology improves border security by allowing Customs to focus on high-risk travellers.

“Precise and complex measurements of unique facial features provide one of the most accurate and secure means of identification,” says Mr Campbell.

Customs is currently testing a prototype of the next generation SmartGate Plus at Air New Zealand’s premier departures at Auckland International Airport.

“We are always exploring new ways to improve the passenger experience and making SmartGate easier to use,” says Mr Campbell. “The testing of SmartGate Plus is a further step in the evolution of this technology.”

SmartGate Plus is a more intuitive one-step concept, where the passport is scanned at the gate, eliminating the need for the kiosk and ticket.

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