NZ cop fined after video shows State of Origin streamed in moving police car

A New Zealand police officer has been fined, following a video showing a rugby league match being streamed on a phone inside a moving squad car.

The clip, which has been shared across multiple groups and pages on social media, was reportedly filmed in Auckland last Wednesday night, June 17.

It shows two officers travelling in a marked police vehicle, with a phone set up on the centre console and appearing to stream Game 2 of this year's State of Origin.

And while it was an unmissable game, with Queensland defeating New South Wales 44-24 to force a title-deciding third match, it wasn’t one that needed to be streamed in a moving vehicle.

Following enquiries, New Zealand Police confirmed the staff involved had “come forward and been spoken to”.

The driver has since been issued a $150 fine, which also carries 20 demerit points under New Zealand road rules for using a mobile phone while driving.

A statement shared on Facebook by Auckland City District Police confirmed: “The driver has been issued an infringement notice, and both staff have been reminded of the high standards required when operating police vehicles.”

Inspector MinHo Lee, Counties Manukau Central Police, said: “Police apologise for this incident, and we acknowledge the concern this may have caused.”

“We want to be clear that Police officers must role model safe behaviour on our roads and they should lead by example.”

Lee added: “We are committed to maintaining the high standards our communities rightly expect of us.”

Looks like the officers will have to stick to listening to the commentary for Game 3.