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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do lessons cost?

  • Driver Training Session: $75/hr
  • Senior Driver Lessons (65+): $70/hr
  • Organisation Funded Driver Training: $70/hr
  • ACC & Specialist Funded Driver Training: $110/hr
  • Prepaid 4 Lesson Package: $275 (save $25!)
  • Prepaid 5 Lesson Package: $340 (save $35!)
  • Personalised Written Coaching Report: $20 (optional add-on)

What payment options are available?

  • Cash: Payment is due the day before your lesson
  • Online Banking: MDT Driver Training | 38-9025-0560451-01 (preferably the day before)

Receipts are available upon request.

What can I expect during my driving lessons?

What can I expect during my driving lessons?
From the moment you get in the car, you'll feel the difference. Matthew creates a calm and supportive environment where there's no rush and no judgement, just genuine care for your progress. We'll start with the basics and build from there, always at your pace, always with your confidence in mind.

What lesson types do you offer?

Each lesson is tailored to exactly where you're at on your driving journey:
Learner Driver Session: Taking your first steps behind the wheel can feel scary and that's okay. Matthew is right here beside you, calm, patient and supportive every step of the way. We'll take it slow and gentle, from learning the controls to your very first time behind the wheel. No question is too small.
Progressive Driver Training Session: You've come so far and we are proud of you! Every session is tailored to your goals and your pace, building on what you already know and growing your confidence on busier roads, intersections, roundabouts and real-world driving situations.
Restricted Licence Test Preparation: Feeling nervous about your test? That's completely normal! Matthew will make sure you feel calm, ready and truly confident, with focused practice on the skills NZTA assessors are looking for so you walk into your test feeling prepared.
Full Licence Test Preparation: You are so close to something really special! Matthew is fully committed to making sure you walk in feeling confident and proud. We'll polish your driving to the higher standard required for your Full Licence Test, including hazard identification, low-risk driving and advanced decision-making.
Driver Confidence Refresher Session: Been a while since you've driven? No judgement here, only warmth and encouragement. We'll gently rebuild your confidence one step at a time, at a pace that feels right for you.
Every single lesson ends with a complimentary debrief so you leave knowing exactly where you're at, and afterwards you'll receive your personalised written coaching report covering what went well and what to gently work on before next time.xt time.

What’s included in every lesson?

  • One-on-one session with Matthew calm, patient and genuinely invested in you
  • Lessons tailored to your ability, goals and learning pace
  • Complimentary debrief after every session
  • Pre-test assessments to identify strengths and areas to work on
  • Guidance and practice on test routes and key driving tasks
  • Convenient pick-up and drop-off options within Whanganui
  • Use of our dual-controlled automatic vehicle (if you don’t have your own)

Are lessons recorded?

Yes! We audio-record every lesson so we can prepare your personalised written coaching report afterwards. Matthew will be instructing throughout the session, so his voice leads the recording, but your voice will naturally be picked up too whenever you ask questions or chat during the lesson. This means nothing important gets missed, and Matthew can focus completely on you during the lesson. You'll sign a simple consent form at your very first lesson. Super quick and easy.

Who can see my recording?

Your recording and personalised written report are only accessed by Matthew and our admin team (that's family-run, behind the scenes!) who prepares and sends out your written report. It's never shared with anyone else, stored securely, and deleted within 90 days. Your written coaching report is yours to keep. Under the NZ Privacy Act 2020, you can also ask for your recording to be deleted at any time. Just let us know.

What does a personalised written coaching report include?

Want a detailed written breakdown of your progress? For just $20 you can add a personalised written coaching report to any lesson. Matthew will put together a thorough, honest and encouraging report tailored specifically to you, because we believe in giving you real value, not just a tick box.

When will I receive my coaching report?

Your personalised written coaching report will be emailed to you after your lesson, usually within 24–48 hours. It's tailored specifically to you, What you did well, gentle areas to work on before your next lesson, and a readiness check against NZTA test standards.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation, No Show & Outstanding Fee Policy

We completely understand that life happens and we will always do our best to work with you! However, if you need to cancel or reschedule your lesson, please give us at least 24 hours notice by texting MDT Admin on 027 368 5010.

Please note:

  • Cancellations, no shows or reschedule requests made within 24 hours of your lesson will incur the full lesson fee.
  • Pre-paid lessons are non-refundable within this period.
  • If you are more than 10 minutes late without contact, your lesson will be cancelled and the fee forfeited.
  • If you have a previous unpaid cancellation or no show fee owing with MDT Driver Training, this must be paid in full before your next lesson can be confirmed.

To arrange payment of any outstanding fees or to reschedule, please text MDT Admin on 027 368 5010 and we will sort it out together.

Thank you so much for your understanding and respect for Matthew's time it truly means the world to us and helps us continue providing the best possible care and support to all of our clients.

What about prepaid package lessons?

Full payment is required before your first lesson. Prepaid packages are non-refundable as they’re offered at a discounted rate, but any unused lessons can be gifted to someone else. If you need to make any changes just reach out to us, we’re always happy to help!

What happens in a 4 or 5 Lesson Package?

Our prepaid lesson packages are a beautiful way to build real confidence behind the wheel, and they're especially loved by beginner and progressive drivers who want steady, consistent progress. Every package is loosely structured but gently adapted along the way, because no two learners are the same, and Matthew shapes each lesson around you.

Here's what a typical package journey might look like:

4 Lesson Package — $275 (save $25!)

  • Lesson 1 — Getting comfortable — We'll start right at the beginning, whatever that looks like for you. Learning the controls, getting a feel for the car, and building those very first moments of confidence behind the wheel.
  • Lesson 2 — Building the basics — Smooth starts and stops, steering, lane positioning, and slowly introducing quieter roads. You'll start to feel the car becoming more familiar.
  • Lesson 3 — Out in the real world — Bringing it all together on busier roads, intersections, roundabouts, and real driving situations. This is where things really start to click.
  • Lesson 4 — Putting it all together — A focused session tying everything together, refining what you've learned, and building genuine confidence in your driving.

5 Lesson Package — $340 (save $35!)

  • Lesson 1 — Getting comfortable — We'll start right at the beginning, whatever that looks like for you. Learning the controls, getting a feel for the car, and building those very first moments of confidence behind the wheel.
  • Lesson 2 — Building the basics — Smooth starts and stops, steering, lane positioning, and slowly introducing quieter roads. You'll start to feel the car becoming more familiar.
  • Lesson 3 — Expanding your comfort zone — Moving into slightly busier areas, practising different intersections, and working on smooth gear changes and observation skills.
  • Lesson 4 — Real-world driving — Tackling roundabouts, merging, and busier Whanganui roads, building up your independence and confidence with every session.
  • Lesson 5 — Polish and progress — A final focused lesson tying everything together, ironing out any wobbles, and celebrating how far you've come.

Every session ends with a complimentary debrief, and you'll receive your personalised written coaching report after each lesson so you can see your progress unfold, one lesson at a time.

Please remember, every package is tailored to you. If we need to spend a bit more time on something, or move faster through another part, that's absolutely okay. Matthew will always meet you right where you're at.

Can I use my own vehicle?

Absolutely! You’re more than welcome to use your own car, manual or automatic, if you feel more comfortable in it. Just make sure it’s registered, warranted and road-legal. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible!

What do I need to bring to my lesson?

Please bring your driver licence, by law we can’t begin without it. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort. Other than that, just bring yourself and a willingness to learn, Matthew will take care of the rest!

Do I need to tell you about any medical conditions?

Please do, yes. If you have any medical condition that could affect your driving (things like epilepsy, fainting, vision issues, or heart conditions), please let Matthew know before your first lesson so he can support you properly. Before each lesson, you'll be asked to confirm you're feeling well and fit to drive, it's just a quick tick, but it keeps everyone safe.

Can I gift driving lessons?

Yes! Driving lessons make the most thoughtful and practical gift. Contact us to arrange payment and scheduling for your lucky recipient. Please note: Lessons or vouchers from the previous owner before January 31st, 2024 are no longer valid.

Can I use MDT’s car for my test?

Absolutely! Don’t let not having a vehicle stand between you and your licence. We offer:

  • Car Hire for "Formal Test" only: $120
  • Pre-Test Practice + Car Hire: $195 (1-2 hrs (varies)the best way to walk into your test feeling ready!)

Please note you’ll need to have had at least two lesson within two weeks of your test booking. Test day bookings depend on Matthew’s schedule so please coordinate ahead of time.

Do you offer refresher lessons?

Absolutely — and there is absolutely no judgement here, only warmth and encouragement! Whether you’re returning to driving after a break or just need to rebuild your confidence, Matthew’s calm and supportive approach will help you feel safe and free on the road again, one gentle step at a time.

Can parents or caregivers join a lesson?

Yes, parents and caregivers are always welcome to observe! We just kindly ask that you let Matthew lead the session, as extra input can sometimes distract the learner. We know it comes from love and we appreciate it!

My child is under 18, do I need to sign anything?

Yes, just one thing. Because we record lessons for the coaching reports, a parent or guardian will need to co-sign the recording consent form at your child's first lesson. It takes about two minutes and covers all their future lessons. If you'd like your child's coaching reports sent to your email as well, just let Matthew know at the first lesson and he'll sort it.

I’m an organisation manager is there an easier way to book for my clients?

Yes! We’ve set up a dedicated Client Portal just for our organisation partners so you can book and manage sessions for all your clients in one place no more re-entering details every time! Simply visit mdtdrivertraining.co.nz/manage-my-bookings and set up your account. Get in touch with us and we’ll get you set up straight away.

Do you offer Defensive Driving Courses?

We’re not currently offering Defensive Driving Courses but we hope to in the future! Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for updates once we become an approved provider.

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