Transport - Cars - Driving - Wellington

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The Road Code
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When you first start driving in New Zealand, there are some important things to know.

The road code
To drive in New Zealand a person must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driving licence. Obtaining a driving licence means learning the road rules and passing a practical driving test. When you get your licence you must always have it with you when you drive.
New Zealand Road Rules
New Zealand has some unique road rules and conditions that road users must understand. The road rules are in a publication called The Road Code.

Road Code - NZ Transport Agency website

Drive left
In New Zealand, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. That means that steering wheels are on the right-hand side of vehicles.

Wear a seatbelt
By law drivers and passengers must wear a seatbelt at all times, including those in the back seat. Children under the age of five must be in a car seat that fits their size and weight.
Don’t drink and drive
Drinking excess alcohol and then driving a car is illegal in New Zealand, and there are heavy penalties including fines and imprisonment. This issue is treated very seriously by the Police and the community.
Roadworthy and registered
Every vehicle on the road in New Zealand must be registered with New Zealand Transport Agency, and have a current Warrant of Fitness which makes sure that the vehicle is safe and road worthy.
Check your speed
The speed limit in built-up areas, including Wellington city, ranges from 30 to 50 km per hour. On state highways and motorways, it can range from 80 km to 100 km per hour. There are signs that tell you what the speed limit is.

Driving Licence

To drive legally in New Zealand, you need to be over age 15 and have a driving licence. This must be either a valid New Zealand driving licence, an international driving permit, or an overseas licence. You must carry it whenever you drive.

If you have a driving licence from your home country, or an international driving permit, it is only valid for 12 months in New Zealand. After that, you must apply for a New Zealand driving licence.

Documents to apply for converting an overseas licence to a New Zealand one are available from several agencies, including New Zealand Transport Agency and the New Zealand Automobile Association. To convert your licence to a New Zealand one, you must learn the New Zealand road code. You will have to pass a theory test and, depending on your home country, pass a practical driving test as well. You can find out more from the New Zealand Transport Agency's website.

Parking in Wellington

There is an abundance of on-street parking and parking buildings in all of the main centres in the Wellington region. In Wellington city, the Council encourages greater use of public transport and less use of cars. For most parts of the inner city, parking costs $4 per hour. Parking is free on weekends in the central city.