Driving in New Zealand
Driver's Licences
Visitors with a current driver licence from their home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP) can legally drive in New Zealand. If you plan to use a foreign licence that is not in English, you should get an English translation or an IDP and carry it with your foreign driver licence. Foreign driver licences are valid for one year from the date you enter New Zealand.
Drive on the Left
All motorists drive on the left hand-side of the road in New Zealand - the same as in the UK and Australia. Regularly remind yourself to keep left and pay particular attention when you are driving in rural areas (where there is less traffic) and when exiting rest areas.
Turning Left
New Zealand has some unique road rules, including the give way or yield rules*. Make sure you understand the rules by thoroughly reviewing these in the New Zealand Road Code before you start driving.
*When turning left you must give way or yield to traffic approaching or crossing from the right.
Speed Limits
Speed limits depend on the type, use and condition of the road. New Zealand has a wide variety of roads, so you will need to pay attention to speed limit signs. The maximum speed limit in urban areas is likely to be 50km/h while the typical speed limit on motorways is 100km/h. The New Zealand Police are tough on drivers who put others at risk by speeding. If you're caught, you could face some severe fines and penalties.
Seat Belts
New Zealand law requires drivers and all passengers (front and rear) to wear seat belts at all times. You can be fined for not wearing your seat belt.
Traffic Lights
Drivers must stop when the traffic light turns red in all circumstances. Drivers must also stop when the traffic light turns amber, unless it's unsafe to do so. NO right or left turns are permitted on a red light, as is the practice in North America.
New Zealand Roads
New Zealand roads and conditions are likely to be different from what you have experienced in your own country. New Zealand has a lot of winding, hilly and narrow roads. The weather in winter can make the roads slippery and icy. Your ability to see what is coming up ahead can be reduced, especially when it is foggy. In New Zealand, it is not uncommon for the weather to be unpredictable, even in summer.
Adjust your driving to the conditions. This includes reducing your speed when the road or weather conditions make driving more demanding, for example, when you are driving on winding roads, where visibility is poor or it is raining.
There are a couple of areas to watch out for when travelling on New Zealand roads. You may encounter some gravel or unpaved roads on your travels, which will require you to reduce speed. It is wise to reduce your speed to 40-50kph or slower on these roads. Drive in established tracks if possible BUT keep left.
In rural areas, keep in mind you may come across livestock like cattle or sheep wandering on roads. If you do, reduce your speed, pull over to the side of the road and be prepared to stop until they have passed.
South and central North Island roads may be temporarily closed due to snow and ice in the colder seasons, although alternative routes are usually available.
Driver Fatigue
- Remember to take regular breaks when driving for long periods or if you begin to feel tired.
- Avoid driving between midnight and dawn and get a good night's sleep before any long drives.
- Check out the Land Transport Safety Authority's website ( www.ltsa.govt.nz ) for more details on the New Zealand Road Code, cycling safety and other general driving information.
Information supplied courtesy of LTSA.
