A police employee has resigned after using a police vehicle for personal purposes, disrupting a planned search and rescue exercise in Christchurch.

The incident, investigated by the Independent Police Conduct Authority, involved the staff member signing out an unmarked police van despite it already being booked for a multi agency training exercise.

The employee then used the vehicle to take a civilian friend on an overnight fishing and camping trip, leaving those involved in the exercise without transport and key equipment. Police were forced to make alternative arrangements at short notice.

During the trip, emergency services were called after a gas cooker at the rear of the van caught fire and caused a small explosion in an area where camping and fishing were prohibited. No one was injured and the vehicle was not damaged.

Police concluded there was not enough evidence to pursue criminal charges relating to the use of the vehicle. However, investigators found the employee had acted dishonestly and breached police policy, amounting to serious misconduct.

The employee resigned before any formal employment process was completed.

The Authority said it was satisfied with the police investigation.