The Road Code
The New Zealand Road Code is the official body of rules that governs how people should behave when using the road. All drivers should know the rules from the road code. Copies of the Rode Code can be bought from most bookshops. Land Transport New Zealand also has the Road Code online.
Some important features of driving in New Zealand are indicated below.
Left Hand Rule
Contrary to many parts of the world, in New Zealand road users drive on the left.
When to Give Way
Vehicles must always give way to traffic crossing or approaching from the right. There are also special rules for giving way on narrow bridges.
Dangerous Driving
There are some particular hazards to be aware of when driving in New Zealand. These include drunk drivers, excessive speeding, natural hazards such as wind gusts and animal herds in rural areas, and treacherous conditions due to weather.
- Drink Driving - There has been a sustained nationwide campaign to significantly reduce drink driving in New Zealand. Police perform compulsory breath tests on motorists at random locations all year round. The penalties for failing the breath test can be severe including imprisonment.
- Speeding - Speeding is the largest single contributor to road deaths. The Police use a number of means (speed cameras, highway patrols) to get drivers to slow down. The penalties for speeding include fines and licence suspension.
- Wearing Seatbelts - The enforcement of wearing seatbelts is part of the greater Police effort to protect life on New Zealand roads. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers are belted up. Not wearing a seatbelt will incur a fine.
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