Waiariki Institute of Technology students are welcoming a move to establish compulsory drug testing, after more than 100 engineering students took the test voluntarily.
Head of department John Kelly said the pilot tests were being run to iron out any kinks in the process, before compulsory testing starts in 2016 for all automotive, collision repair, carpentry, engineering and electrical students.
The tests were being carried out by the Drug Detection Agency across the institute's Rotorua, Tokoroa and Taupo campuses on Wednesday.
Compulsory testing already exists for forestry operations students.
"We are getting a really clear message from industry in all trade areas that drug free is important.