Last updated: 13 April 2026

Overview

SpotterNZ ("the App") is a community-driven road safety application that helps New Zealand drivers stay aware of speed cameras, road hazards, and driving conditions. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information.

Information We Collect

Location Data

• We collect your GPS location to show nearby alerts and notify you when approaching a reported camera or hazard.
• With your permission, location is also collected in the background to provide alerts while the app is minimised.
• Location data is used in real-time and is not stored on our servers beyond what is necessary for the reporting feature.

Anonymous User Identity

• When you first open the App, an anonymous account is created automatically using Firebase Authentication.
• We do not collect your name, email address, phone number, or any other personal information.
• Your anonymous user ID is used solely to track your reports and prevent duplicate voting.

Road Reports

• When you report a speed camera or road hazard, we store the GPS coordinates, report type, and your anonymous user ID.
• Reports are visible to all App users and automatically expire based on type:
  • Undercover units: 90 minutes
  • Checkpoints: 4 hours
  • Mobile trailers: 3 days
  • Fixed cameras: Permanent
  • Crash/breakdown: 3 hours
  • Roadworks: 7 days
  • Animal on road: 2 hours
  • Flooding/slip: 12 hours
  • Black ice/fog: 6 hours

Device Information

• We may collect basic device information (device type, operating system version) for crash reporting and performance monitoring.

How We Use Your Information

• Display nearby alerts: Your location is used to show relevant reports and calculate distances.
• Proximity alerts: Your location is monitored to send push notifications when you approach a reported camera or hazard, including when the app is running in the background.