Get low-stress driving lessons with your local Driving Instructor, Gavin Buchanan at Thames Driver Training. Learn to drive at your own pace in our dual controlled automatic car, or in your own automatic or manual car. We also run Defensive Driving Courses in Thames and Waihi.
Established in 2018, our students continue to achieve a very high success rate. Previously operating as the AA Driving School and AA Driving Instructor in Thames, Paeroa, Waihi and Whangamata, in 2023 we chose to become your local independent driving school.
Book your driving lessons online anytime on our online calendar. Easily see at a glance which days and times are available in Thames, Waihi, Paeroa or Whangamata.

driving lessons
Driving lessons are a great practical gift idea!
You can rely on me to be honest with you if you're not quite ready to pass your test.
I don’t want you to fail simply because you're not quite there yet!

driving courses
Defensive Driving Courses
Learn how to drive more safely, and cut six months off the time to get your full licence!
The course is 9 hours of learning time in total, held over four evenings in group sessions.
Hands on practical skills are taught during an individual in car tuition session.
We run Street Talk Defensive Driving courses in Thames, Waihi and Whangamata and other areas by arrangement for schools or groups.
Find out more about
Learner Licence Courses
An interactive two day course to help you get your Learner Licence.
You'll learn the road rules in the New Zealand Road Code. Find out the difference between compulsory road rules, advisory actions, best practice and the reasoning behind some of New Zealand’s road rules.
Shortly after the course (usually the next day), you'll do your Learners Licence test.
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senior driving coaching
I provide relaxed in-car refresher coaching for seniors.
Stay confident and safe in your driving skills knowing your knowledge of the current road rules is up to date.
I'll help you prepare for your practical test and can also provide a written assessment if requested by your doctor etc.
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about me
Hi, I’m Gavin Buchanan, your local Driving Instructor.
Coming from a Testing Officer background, I offer you the best of both worlds because I'll share my in-depth knowledge of what’s expected during your test, including a practice test when you're ready.
I provide driving lessons for all levels, run local Defensive Driving courses in Thames and Waihi, Defensive Driving for Fleet and Business customers, as well Senior Driving Coaching and driving assessments.
My goal is to help you succeed to learn to drive safely and to get your driver licence.
Find out more about me.
