The official New Zealand road code A user-friendly guide to New Zealand's traffic law and safe driving practices.
Introduction The official New Zealand road code is a user-friendly guide to New Zealand’s traffic law and safe driving practices. You will be tested on this information in your theory and practical driving tests. Information in the Licence and study guide section will help you through each stage of your driver licence. It explains the driver licensing system in New Zealand, describes each stage of your driver licence and provides useful information about the theory and practical tests. It also includes most of the questions that you could be asked when you sit the theory test for your learner licence, and a driving skills syllabus to help you and your driving coach when you’re learning to drive. This guide is intended for drivers of cars and other light vehicles. For information for heavy vehicle drivers and motorcyclists, please obtain a physical copy of The official New Zealand road code for heavy vehicle drivers and The official New Zealand road code for motorcyclists.
Updates Any changes made to the web version of The official New Zealand road code since the last published edition are listed on the Updates page.
Where can I buy the 'Road code'? You can purchase copies of The official New Zealand road code for car drivers, The official New Zealand road code for heavy vehicle drivers and The official New Zealand road code for motorcyclists from NZ Transport Agency agents and most booksellers. The 2012/13 edition of The official New Zealand road code is available from the following stockists:
The New Zealand Automobile Association (AA stores) - www.aa.co.nz Paper Plus and Take Note stores - www.paperplus.co.nz VTNZ (Vehicle Testing New Zealand) - www.vtnz.co.nz The Warehouse - www.thewarehouse.co.nz Whitcoulls stores - www.whitcoulls.co.nz Some BP Connect Service Stations - www.bp.co.nz Some Postshops - www.postshop.co.nz Many independent bookshops.
DISCLAIMER The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has endeavoured to ensure the material in this document is technically accurate and reflects legal requirements. However, the document does not override governing legislation. The NZTA does not accept liability for any consequences arising from the use of this document. If the user of this document is unsure whether the material is correct, they should make direct reference to the relevant legislation and contact the NZTA.
Creating a safe road system To create a road system where fewer people die or are seriously injured, we need to improve the safety of all parts of the system – roads and roadsides, speeds, vehicles, and road use. This is a job for all of us – for drivers and for everyone working in the transport sector. As a road user, you can contribute by choosing to:
buy the safest vehicle you can afford so it protects you and your loved ones in the event of a crash, and keep your vehicle really well maintained travel on roads that are the safest and be aware of roadside hazards travel at a safe speed for the road and conditions – such as the safety of your vehicle, the weather, other traffic on the road, and your level of experience give driving the respect and attention it deserves think ahead and leave plenty of time for your journey – even short ones share the road safely with others stay sober and drug-free behind the wheel, and ensure others do the same.
Meanwhile, the transport sector will work to ensure:
roads and roadsides are more predictable and forgiving of drivers’ mistakes, and encourage appropriate behaviour and safe speeds speed limits suit individual roads and drivers understand safe speeds and drive to the conditions vehicles help prevent crashes and protect people in crashes so they aren’t killed or seriously injured.
It will take 10 years or more to build this level of safety into the road system, and it will only happen if we all play our part. Please do your bit for safer journeys on our roads.
Updates to the Road code This page lists any updates to The official New Zealand road code since the last published edition. These changes will usually have been caused by a legislation change. Other update pages:
The official New Zealand road code for heavy vehicle drivers The official New Zealand road code for motorcyclists
The 2013 version of The official New Zealand road code was published in June 2013.
Update September 2013
Page 302: Question I6 - The image displayed for this question is incorrect. The question is not currently included in the questions you could be asked in a theory test for a car licence.
Update October 2012
Hazards and emergencies - Dealing with hazards Text change made to 'Course' information under 'The system of car control'.
About signs In this section you’ll be introduced to the main types of road and vehiclemounted signs you will see on New Zealand roads. Other signs are introduced throughout this book in relevant sections.
Main types of signs Vehicle-mounted signs
Main types of signs Most of the signs you will see on New Zealand roads are international symbolic signs. This means they use the same shapes and symbols as traffic signs all over the world. Symbolic signs are used because they are quick to read and easy for all drivers to understand. New Zealand's signs are generally made of reflective material, making them easier to read at night.
The three types of sign The signs on our roads can be divided into three types: 1. 2. 3.
compulsory signs warning signs information signs
You must be able to recognise and understand each type of sign. Some examples of these signs are shown on the following pages. Note: the examples shown are only a small sample of the symbolic signs used on our roads. They are intended to familiarise you with the three main types of symbolic sign rather than introduce you to all of the signs you will see when driving. Important Road authorities (for example, local councils) may have special rules for road users in specific areas. These restrictions should be indicated by signs or markings.
Compulsory signs Compulsory signs tell you what you must or must not do. They are usually red or blue.
Turn right
Keep going straight ahead
You must not go faster than 50 km/h
You must not drive into this road
You must not turn left
You must not make a U-turn
You must slow down (or stop, if necessary) and give way
Keep left
You must stop and then give way
School patrol – you must stop
Some compulsory signs have red borders.
You must keep left unless passing
Bus lane that can only be used by buses
Bus lane that can also be used by cycles, motorcycles, mopeds
Transit lane, which can only be used by passenger service vehicles, cycles, motorcycles and vehicles carrying at least the number of people displayed on the sign (eg T2 means two or more people, T3 means three or more people)
Warning signs Warning signs alert you to a particular hazard on the road ahead. They warn you to be careful for your own safety, the safety of other road users or the safety of road workers carrying out maintenance. There are two types of warning signs: 1. 2.
those that warn you of a permanent hazard those that warn you of a temporary hazard.
Both types of sign are usually diamond shaped.
Permanent warning signs Permanent warning signs are yellow and black.
Pedestrian crossing
Look out for children
Slippery surface
Road narrows
Clearance height advance warning
Temporary warning signs Temporary warning signs are orange and black.
Roadworks
Left lane closed
Slips
Gravel surface
Stop on request
Other hazard
Note: this sign will always be displayed with another sign explaining the hazard, eg ‘Flooding’
Information signs Information signs give you useful information, for example, the distance to the next town. They are all rectangular, but come in a range of different colours and sizes.
You may turn left, but first give way to any pedestrians and vehicles
Shows the state highway number and the distance in kilometres to places listed
Shows directions to places at the next intersection
Shows the way to the nearest information centre
Shows the state highway number and direction to places listed
Vehicle mounted signs When oversize vehicles or vehicles carrying very large loads use our roads, they must have special signs mounted on them. They may also be accompanied by pilot vehicles to warn other road users to take care. If you see one of these signs or pilot vehicles when you are driving, you should slow down. If the oversize vehicle or load is coming towards you, you may need to pull over and stop to allow it to pass.
Oversize sign The sign below will be displayed on the oversize vehicle itself. If you see this sign when driving, you should drive cautiously. The vehicle may be very wide, long or high, or a combination of all three.
Oversize vehicle
Pilot vehicles When a vehicle is carrying a large load, it may be accompanied by a pilot vehicle, with flashing yellow roof lights and a roof-mounted sign, to warn other road users. If the pilot vehicle is in front of the load, the sign will say either ‘Long load follows’ or ‘Wide load follows’. If the pilot vehicle is behind the load, the sign will say either ‘Long load ahead’ or ‘Wide load ahead’.
Wide load follows
Extremely large loads If a vehicle’s load is extremely large, two pilot vehicles will travel ahead of it.
The first pilot vehicle will have flashing yellow and purple roof lights and a rooftop sign that says ‘Danger slow down’. The second pilot vehicle will have flashing yellow roof lights and a roof-top sign that says ‘Wide load follows’.
Danger slow down
Important If you see an Oversize sign or a pilot vehicle with flashing lights, slow down and be prepared to pull over and stop.
About driving Key driving skills This section introduces you to the key driving skills and road rules that you need to learn to be a safe and competent driver.
Keeping left Giving signals Receiving signals Turning Using lanes correctly Following distance Passing Merging Motorway driving Towing Reversing
Giving way This section describes the situations in which you must give way to other vehicles when driving. It shows you what to do in a variety of situations and at different kinds of intersections.
Intersections The give way rules Giving way at roundabouts Giving way at railway level crossings Giving way on one-lane bridges
Stopping and parking
How to park safely Where not to park Parking signs Stopping at intersections, railway level crossings and pedestrian crossings
When conditions change This section tells you how to drive safely when conditions become more hazardous than usual.
Driving in bad weather Night driving Roadworks Sunstrike Road surface
Hazards and emergencies Driving has the potential to be dangerous, particularly when other hazards are involved. This section gives you some valuable tips on how to be aware of hazards and how to avoid getting into crash situations.
Dealing with hazards Multiple hazards Safe driving tips Tips for handling driving emergencies
Key driving skills Keeping left In New Zealand, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. It is essential to keep left, because if you don't you are likely to cause a headon crash. This is one of the worst types of crash, as it almost always results in death or serious injury. What is a road? The legal definition of a road is very broad. It includes not only streets and highways, but also any place the public has access to – including bridges, beaches, riverbeds, car parks, reserve lands, wharves and road shoulders. Because of this, you should apply road rules at all times when you're driving, even when you aren't on a public road.
Keeping left on a laned road Most roads in New Zealand have lanes marked on them with a white line or raised studs. When driving on a laned road, it is important to drive your vehicle within your lane. Where there are two or more lanes on your side of the centre line:
keep in the left-hand lane as much as you can don't use the lane closest to the centre line if you will hold up other vehicles.
The lane closest to the centre line should only be used when:
you want to pass another vehicle you want to turn right the left-hand lane is full with other traffic or is blocked.
Laned road
Keeping left on an unlaned road An unlaned road is a road with no marked white lines or raised studs. To stay well out of the way of oncoming vehicles, always keep as close as possible to the left side of the road.
Unlaned road
Driving tip When driving on an open road with a centre line, your driver's seat should normally be in the centre of your half of the road (except when driving a left-hand drive vehicle). Reduce your speed to stay in this position when driving around bends.
Keeping left on a curve Keep well to the left when you are driving around a curve (a bend in the road), whether you are on a laned or unlaned road. This is particularly important because you can't always see what's around the corner. As well as other vehicles coming the other way, there could be cyclists, horses, pedestrians or an object on your side of the road.
Curves in the road
Giving signals Signals enable you to tell other road users that you are changing your direction or position on the road. Because of this, knowing when and how to give signals is a very important part of being a safe driver. Drivers usually signal using their indicators. However, you may sometimes need to use hand signals, if your indicators can't be seen.
When to give signals You must signal for at least three seconds before you:
turn left or right move towards the left or right (for example, when you pull back into the left lane after passing another vehicle) stop or slow down move out: o from a parking space o to pass another vehicle o to change lanes.
Important Don't assume that other drivers have seen your signals.
Signalling when turning right
For information about signalling at roundabouts, see Giving way at roundabouts.
Using your indicators Your indicators are usually flashing yellow lights on both sides of the front and rear of your vehicle. They signal your intentions to other road users. Use your left indicator when you are:
turning left moving towards the left (for example, when you pull back into the left lane after passing another vehicle or when returning to the kerb).
Signalling left
Use your right indicator when you are:
turning right moving towards the right (for example, when moving out of a parking space).
Signalling right
Right-turn hand signal
Important Don't just rely on the other driver's signal. Is the vehicle slowing down? Is the vehicle in the right place on the road in relation to the signal?
Stopping Your stop lights (the red lights at the back of your vehicle) let people behind you know that you're slowing down or stopping. Stop lights come on automatically when you use the brake pedal (footbrake). Keep your foot on the brake pedal to keep the brake light on to warn other drivers.
Stop lights
Stop or slowing hand signal
Tip: tapping the brake pedal will flash the stop lights to warn other drivers.
Hazard lights When you turn on your hazard lights, both indicator lights flash at the same time as a warning to other road users. You should only turn on your hazard lights when your vehicle becomes a temporary hazard to other road users, such as when:
you're changing a tyre on the side of the road your vehicle has broken down and is being towed.
Receiving signals There are a variety of other signals that other road users will use to communicate to you. You must know what these signals are and what to do when you see them.
Flashing lights and sirens If an emergency vehicle (such as an ambulance, fire engine or police car) is coming towards you or behind you, and is using sirens and/or flashing red, blue, or blue and red lights, you must pull over and, if necessary, stop and allow it to pass.
Flashing red lights on an emergency vehicle
If a police car is following you with its siren on and/or flashing blue, or blue and red lights, you must pull over and stop as soon as possible. If asked to, you must give the following to a police officer:
your name, address and date of birth your driver licence the name of the vehicle's owner.
Flashing blue and red lights on a police car
If a vehicle is following you with flashing blue lights, you must pull over and stop as soon as possible. Flashing blue lights are used by customs officers, fisheries officers and marine reserve officers. These people have the right to stop vehicles.
Flashing lights on a customs/fisheries/marine reserve car
Doctors, nurses or midwives on urgent business may use a roof-mounted green flashing light. If you see these, you must pull over and allow the vehicle to pass.
When service vehicles, such as tow trucks and road maintenance vehicles, use flashing yellow lights, they are warning you to be careful around them. When you see these lights, slow down and be prepared to stop, if necessary.
Yellow flashing lights on a service vehicle
Oversize vehicles may use flashing yellow lights and pilot vehicles may use flashing yellow and purple lights. These mean you must pull over and, if necessary, stop, and let all the vehicles pass. For more information about oversize vehicles, seeVehicle-mounted signs. Red flashing signals outside a fire station or airport mean you must stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing.
Flashing red signals
Police officer directing traffic When a police officer is directing traffic, you must stop or go where the officer directs you. A police officer's directions overrule:
traffic signals road signs the give way rules.
If a police officer is controlling an intersection, be careful to get into the correct lane. If you don't, you may have to go the wrong way. Show the officer where you want to go by using your indicators.
Turning Turning can be dangerous, because it usually means you have to cross the path of other vehicles. Remember turning traffic gives way to traffic that is not turning.
How to turn To legally and safely make a left or right turn:
do a thorough check for other vehicles – in front, behind and to the sides remember to check over your shoulder for your blind spots (the areas of road to the sides of your car that you can't see in your mirrors) watch for pedestrians signal for at least three seconds turn when safe.
If you are turning left, use your left indicator. If you are turning right, use your right indicator. Be prepared to stop, even if the other driver should give way to you. Important When turning or changing lanes remember to always check your blind spots.
Turning from a driveway If you are driving out of a driveway:
slow down to a complete stop at the end of the driveway check the road and footpath for pedestrians, vehicles and other hazards give way to: o anyone using the footpath o cyclists using a cycle path or cycle lane o vehicles on the road, including vehicles turning right into the driveway.
Making a left turn If you are turning left into another street or driveway:
stay in the left-turn lane or keep to the left side of the road slow down before you turn check your mirrors and your blind spot signal for at least three seconds turn when safe.
Left turn
Making a right turn on a road with no marked lanes In this situation:
slow down before you turn check your mirrors and look over your right shoulder to check your blind spot signal for at least three seconds move close to the centre of the road turn when safe to a similar position in the road.
Right turn on an unlaned road
Important When turning, maintain your position on the road. For example, if you are on the left-hand side of the road, you should stay on the left-hand side of the road after you've turned; or if you are in a lane next to the centre line, you should turn into the lane next to the centre line.
Making a right turn on a road with a centre line In this situation:
slow down before you turn check your mirrors and look over your right shoulder to check your blind spot signal for at least three seconds move towards to the centre line turn when safe to a similar position in the road.
Right turn on a road with a centre line
Making a right turn from the left-hand side of the road If there are other vehicles moving fast or following too closely, or if the road is narrow, it may be best to wait on the left-hand side of the road to make the turn, rather than stopping in the middle of the road and holding up traffic.
In this situation:
signal left for at least three seconds move across to the left-hand side of the road wait there until it is safe to turn signal right for at least three seconds before you turn move when it is safe.
If a vehicle in front of you has also stopped to turn right, it's best to wait behind them and then use the same position to turn from. Take extra care on roads where traffic is moving quickly.
Turning right from the left side of the road Safe turning tip If you have stopped to turn right, keep your wheels pointed straight ahead until you start to turn. That way, if you are hit from behind you are less likely to be pushed into the path of oncoming traffic.
Making a right turn from a right-turn bay A right-turn bay is an area where vehicles that are turning right can wait until it is safe to turn, without holding up vehicles going straight through. You can't use the right-turn bay to overtake a vehicle travelling straight ahead. As you approach the right-turn bay, the road will be painted with a white triangle with diagonal lines inside it, followed by one or more right-turn arrows. You can only drive over the white diagonal lines if you are turning right.
Right-turn bay
Turning on or off a road with a flush median A flush median is a strip in the centre of the road that is marked with white diagonal lines within parallel lines. It provides a place for vehicles that are turning right, or vehicles that have turned right onto the road from a side road or driveway. You can only drive onto the flush median to:
wait to move into a gap in the traffic flow after you have turned right (car A in the diagram below) slow down and wait before turning right (car B in the diagram below).
Using a flush median
Important When using a flush median, watch out for pedestrians who might be waiting on the flush median to cross the road.
Making a U-turn You are normally allowed to make U-turns, as long as the road is clear in both directions and it is safe to do so. Make sure you have enough room to complete the turn and don't create a hazard for oncoming vehicles. You aren't allowed to make U-turns if a 'No U-turn' sign is displayed.
Making a turn over a no-passing line You can cross over the solid yellow no-passing line (if it is safe to do so) when making a turn to enter a driveway or side road. However, bear in mind that no-passing lines are often marked where visibility is limited, so special care is required. It may be safer to turn further along the road, where visibility is better. See Passing for more information about nopassing lines.
Using lanes correctly Lanes are painted on the road to separate traffic. It's important that you use lanes correctly. The information below will help you do that.
Lane rules at intersections Make sure you are in the correct lane for the direction that you are travelling. Follow the direction of any arrows marked on the road. If there are no arrows:
turn left from the left-hand lane turn right from the right-hand lane use either lane to go straight ahead.
Ideally, you should stay in the same lane all the way through the intersection. Don't change lanes unless you can do so safely.
Laned intersection
Making a right turn at an intersection with marked lanes When turning right from a road that has more than one marked lane in each direction into another road with more than one marked lane in each direction:
make sure you are in the right-turn lane signal for at least three seconds before turning turn into the appropriate lane of the road.
Turning right with marked lanes
Making a right turn into a one-way street When turning into a one-way street:
turn from the lane next to the centre line (if in a two-way street) signal for at least three seconds before turning turn into the closest lane of the one-way street.
Turning right into a one-way street
Making a right turn from a one-way street When turning right from a one-way street, you should stay in the same lane throughout the turn. That means:
if you're turning from the left-hand lane of the one-way street, turn into the left-hand lane of the two-way street if you're turning from the right-hand lane of the one-way street, turn into the lane immediately to the left of the centre line of the two-way street.
Remember to signal for at least three seconds before turning.
Turning right from a one-way street
Two vehicles turning into the same road at a laned intersection When two vehicles are turning into the same road at an intersection that has more than one marked in lane in both directions:
both vehicles must show they want to turn by signalling for at least three seconds both vehicles stay in their own lane throughout the turn, that is: o car A turns from the left-hand lane into the left-hand lane o car B turns from the right-hand lane into the right-hand lane.
Turning at a laned intersection
Changing lanes at an intersection Ideally, try to get into the correct lane before you get to the intersection. However, if you must change lanes:
make sure it's safe before you start signal for at least three seconds before changing lanes before changing lanes, look over your shoulder to check that there are no vehicles in your blind spot.
Never change lanes suddenly.
Incorrectly changing lanes at an intersection
Passing lanes When there are passing lanes, drive in the left-hand lane unless you are passing another vehicle. If you've been driving slower than the speed limit, don't speed up when you reach a passing lane if other vehicles are following – give them the opportunity to pass you safely. See Passing for more information.
Passing lane
Special vehicle lanes Special vehicle lanes have signs or markings that indicate they are only for the use of specific kinds of vehicles, such as buses, cycles, taxis or vehicles carrying a specified number of passengers (transit lanes). See Main types of signs for examples of special vehicle lane signs. Other vehicles may use special vehicle lanes to make a turn or get to a parking space. Use of the lane for these purposes must be kept to a minimum length and be no more than 50 metres. You must give way to any vehicles entitled to use the lane. Some special vehicle lanes operate 24 hours a day for the use of the designated vehicles. Others have times of operation specified on their signs, for example, '4 pm to 6 pm'. In that case, you may be able to stop in them outside of these times. Important If you are turning at an intersection where there is a cycle lane, give way to cyclists going straight through.
Following distance It's very important to make sure you have a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front, so you will have enough time to stop if you need to stop suddenly. Several seconds can pass from the time you see the hazard until you come to a complete stop. This is because you need time to react to the hazard and take action – putting your foot on the brake – as well as time for the brakes to slow the vehicle down.
The faster you are going, the longer it will take to stop. This means you must increase your following distance as you increase your speed. Important Some people take longer to react to hazards than others. If you're tired, or your reaction times are slower than normal, take this into account and increase your following distance.
Keeping a safe following distance A good way to make sure you always keep a safe following distance is to use the two-second rule or the four-second rule, which are explained below.
The two-second rule Under normal conditions, the two-second rule is an easy way to make sure you have allowed enough following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, no matter what speed you're travelling at. To check if you are travelling two seconds behind the vehicle in front:
watch the vehicle in front of you pass a landmark – such as a sign, tree or power pole – at the side of the road as it passes the landmark, start counting 'one thousand and one, one thousand and two' if you pass the landmark before you finish saying those eight words, you are following too closely - slow down, pick another landmark and repeat the words to make sure you have increased your following distance.
The two-second rule
The four-second rule In bad weather, when the road is wet or slippery, or when you're towing a trailer, you need to increase your following distance to four seconds, because you'll take longer to stop if you need to. To check that you are travelling four seconds behind the vehicle in front, follow the instructions above for the two second rule, but count 'one thousand and
one, one thousand and two, one thousand and three, one thousand and four' instead. Important When you're following another vehicle and you don't intend to overtake them, you must leave enough space in front of your vehicle for vehicles behind to pass you.
Passing Many serious crashes on New Zealand roads are caused by dangerous passing. To safely pass another vehicle, you need to be extremely careful. You need to have a clear view of the road ahead, to make sure you can finish passing safely. You must also pay close attention to the vehicle you are passing, in case it changes its course.
Passing on the right Passing on the right can be dangerous, especially if you have to:
change your path of travel enter a lane or part of the road used by oncoming vehicles.
Before passing, always ask yourself 'is it really necessary to pass?' Don't pass just because you are feeling impatient with the car in front – that's often when crashes happen. If you do decide to pass, follow the rules shown below. Before you pass:
make sure you will be able to see at least 100 metres of clear road ahead of you once you have finished passing - if not, don't pass look well ahead to make sure there are no vehicles coming towards you look behind to make sure there are no vehicles passing you signal right for at least three seconds before moving out to pass.
Before pulling in front of a vehicle you have passed:
make sure you can see the vehicle in your rear view mirror signal left for at least three seconds.
Passing on the right
Important Take extra care, and leave extra room, when passing cyclists, horses or pedestrians, as the wind gust of your vehicle could affect their balance.
Passing on the left You can only pass on the left when:
there are two or more lanes on your side of the centre line and you are able to pass safely by using the left-hand lane you are directed to by a police officer the vehicle you are passing: o has stopped, or o is signalling a right turn, or o is turning right.
At all other times, when you are passing, you must pass on the right.
Passing on the left
Important Keep a safe distance behind the vehicle you are about to pass. Follow the two-second rule.
If you are being passed by another vehicle:
move as far to the left of the road as possible never speed up to stop the other vehicle from passing you.
No-passing line On some sections of road there will be a solid yellow line painted on your side of the centre line. This line is called a no-passing line. No-passing lines are usually there because it's unsafe to cross the centre line to pass, because features like hills and curves make it impossible to see if there is oncoming traffic. Sometimes no-passing lines are marked because:
there is already a passing lane on your side of the road and you must use that to pass the road is multi-laned, so you do not need to cross the no-passing line to pass.
You must not pass another vehicle if it means you have to cross over a nopassing line on your side of the centre line. If you see a dashed yellow line on your side of the centre line, that means that a no-passing line is about to start. While you may come back over the dashed yellow line to finish passing, you must not cross it to start passing.
No-passing line
As shown in the picture above:
you may come back over the dashed yellow line between A and B to finish passing you must not cross the solid yellow line between C and D.
You can pass at a no-passing line if:
you stay on your side of the solid yellow line, and you can see 100 metres of clear road in front of you for the whole time while you are passing, and the lane is wide enough for two vehicles.
Passing without crossing the no-passing line
Passing on a three-laned road If there is no solid yellow line on your side of the centre line, you may use the centre lane to pass as long as:
there are no vehicles in that lane, and you can see 100 metres of clear road in front of you for the whole time while you are passing.
Don't use the centre lane to pass if there is an oncoming vehicle in the centre lane.
Passing on a three-lane road
Where you must not pass Remember, it is against the law to cross over a no-passing line on your side of the centre line to pass another vehicle. But this isn't the only situation where you mustn't pass. This page shows you other situations where passing is both unsafe and illegal. Don't pass any vehicle that has stopped, or is slowing down, for people on a pedestrian crossing.
Illegal passing near a pedestrian crossing
Don't pass any vehicle when you are coming to a blind corner or curve. (A blind corner or curve is where you can't see what's around the corner.)
Illegal passing on a curve
Don't pass any vehicle when you can't see at least 100 metres of clear road in front of you for the whole time while you are passing.
Illegal passing without 100 metres of clear road
Don’t pass any vehicle at an intersection if it means you will cross the centre line. You must not get in the way of:
vehicles coming towards you vehicles coming out of side roads.
Illegal passing at an intersection
Don't pass:
any moving vehicle when you are less than 60 metres from a railway level crossing any vehicle that has stopped for a train.
Illegal passing near a railway level crossing
Don't pass any vehicle if it means you have to drive over a flush median.
Illegal passing on a flush median
Passing at an intersection In some situations, you are allowed to pass another vehicle at an intersection; however, you need to be very careful when doing this.
Passing on the left at an intersection with one lane on your side of the road In this situation, you can pass on the left if there is enough room in your lane for you to pass and the vehicle you are passing:
has stopped, or is signalling a right turn, or is turning right.
Don't pass if the vehicle has signalled a left turn.
Passing on the left at an intersection
Passing on the left at an intersection with more than one lane on your side of the road In this situation, you can pass on the left if the vehicle you are passing is in a different lane and you can pass safely.
Passing on the left at an intersection
Passing on the right at an intersection with more than one lane on your side of the road In this situation, you can pass on the right if you are turning right or going straight ahead.
Passing on the right at an intersection
Merging Sometimes on a road, two lanes will merge into one lane. The lanes merge where the broken lane lines stop. It's important to make sure that all vehicles from both lanes have plenty of space in which to merge safely. The instructions in this section show you how.
Merge like a zip The best way to merge is like a zip – where a vehicle from the left lane goes and then a vehicle from the right lane goes, and so on. As you merge, let one vehicle from the other lane go first, and then go.
Merging
Leaving a merge lane after turning right at an intersection Some roads have a merge lane to help vehicles that have turned onto the road join the traffic flow. If you are in a merge lane at an intersection:
show you want to merge by signalling for at least three seconds move into a safe gap in the traffic adjust your speed and following distance.
Merge lane
Using on-ramps when entering and leaving a motorway Motorway on-ramps are similar to merge lanes. When using an on-ramp to enter a motorway:
change your speed to match the speed of the motorway traffic use the whole length of the on-ramp to adjust your speed – don't change speed suddenly just as you enter the motorway signal right for at least three seconds move into a safe gap in the traffic don't enter the motorway at a sharp angle adjust your speed and following distance.
Motorway on-ramp
When using an off-ramp to leave a motorway:
watch for exit signs signal left for at least three seconds move into the left-hand lane as soon as possible keep up with the traffic flow until you are on the off-ramp don't leave the motorway at a sharp angle adjust your speed.
Motorway off-ramp
Motorway driving Motorways are designed so that traffic can flow with as little disruption as possible. On a motorway, you shouldn't come across things that hold up traffic flow, such as:
intersections turning vehicles parked vehicles pedestrians cyclists.
Although the number of 'everyday' driving hazards are reduced on motorways, you still need to drive carefully as motorway traffic usually moves very quickly.
Motorway signs Most motorway signs are green with white around the edges. Pay special attention to signs that show the beginning and end of the motorway, as well as signs that show particular exits.
Motorway signs
Safe driving on motorways When driving on a motorway:
keep left, unless you are passing watch for exit signs get into the correct exit lane in plenty of time signal for at least three seconds before you change lanes you must not stop your vehicle, except in an emergency you must not make a U-turn you must not stop to let down or pick up passengers if you miss your exit, don't stop and reverse – instead, drive on to the next exit.
Breakdowns on motorways If you break down on a motorway:
indicate and steer your vehicle as far off the road as possible – don't stop suddenly lift up the bonnet and boot and, if possible, hang something white on the driver's door handle or window – this will show you need help turn on your hazard lights or use a safety triangle to warn approaching traffic at night, turn on the inside light if you don't have a mobile phone and it isn't safe to walk to a telephone, stay in your car and wait for help don't stand on the motorway if you need help from other drivers, leave plenty of space for them to stop – remember, vehicles travel fast on a motorway and it will take a while for them to slow down.
Towing Light motor vehicles On a learner or restricted car licence (Class 1) you can tow a trailer but the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 4500kg. On a full licence the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 6000kg. Tractors and agricultural vehicles On a restricted or full car licence you can drive an agricultural tractor-trailer combination of up to 25,000kg providing you do not exceed 40km/h. On a full car licence you can also drive:
a tractor/trailer combination of up to 25,000kg if being used for non-agricultural purposes at a speed of up to 30km/h, or an agricultural tractor-trailer combination of up to 25,000kg being driven at a speed of up to 40km/h.
See page 13–18 for more information about what you can drive on different licence classes.
You must take extra care when towing a trailer or another vehicle. This is because, with the extra weight behind it, your vehicle will feel different to drive. Follow the safe towing guidelines on these pages whenever you tow a trailer or another vehicle. Note: the term ‘trailer’ includes caravans, and boat and horse trailers. Important If you are towing a trailer or another vehicle, check your rear-view mirror often to make sure you aren't holding up vehicles behind you.
Safe towing guidelines
Refer to the car manufacturer's recommendations before towing a trailer, in particular the weight limits recommended. Refer to the loading limits for the tow bar you are using. Be aware that overloading and uneven loading of car trailers can seriously affect a car's handling. When driving a light vehicle (for example, a car or light truck), you must not tow more than one trailer or vehicle at a time. You must be able to see behind the towed trailer or vehicle. If you can't see behind with your rear-view mirrors, you may need to fit a special mirror. There must be no more than 4 metres between your vehicle and the trailer or vehicle it is towing. The maximum speed for a light vehicle towing a trailer on the open road is 90 km/h. The maximum speed for towing a motorcycle is 30 km/h. You must not tow a motorcycle unless it is mechanically disabled. At night, the back of the trailer/towed vehicle must show a red light. If you're towing a disabled vehicle at night, its headlights must light up the towing connection. Remember, you will be slower and less stable than other traffic when towing. Check behind often to see if other vehicles are held up behind you. If the road is winding or narrow and vehicles can't pass you, stop at a safe place and let them pass. Leave more space than usual between your vehicle and the one in front, so that others can pass you. Remember that the added weight behind you means you will need more space to stop. Increase your following distance from two seconds to four seconds. The towing connection and safety chain or cable that holds the trailer/vehicle must be secured safe and strong. If you are towing another vehicle without a rigid towing system, eg with a rope or a strop, the maximum allowable speed is 50km/h. If you are towing another vehicle with a rigid towing connection the maximum speed is 90km/h.
Important When towing a horse trailer, take extra care as the horse may move – especially when you brake or travel around corners – and this could affect the movement of the trailer.
Reversing When reversing, take special care to make sure that the way is clear. Every year, young children are killed and injured by reversing vehicles. If you are in any doubt about whether the way behind you is clear, get out and check.
Reversing guidelines Follow the guidelines below whenever you are reversing:
Before you move off, make sure it is safe to reverse. The best way to do this is to walk around the vehicle and make sure there are no children or other obstacles in your path. Don't rely on your mirrors alone. Always turn around and look over your shoulder. Try to reverse in a straight line.
Giving way This section describes the situations in which you must give way to other vehicles when driving. It shows you what to do in a variety of situations and at different kinds of intersections. It is very important to know the give way rules.
Intersections The give way rules Giving way at roundabouts Giving way at railway level crossings Giving way on one-lane bridges
Intersections What is an intersection? An intersection is where:
two or more streets or roads join or cross a public entrance or exit joins a street or road.
Intersections include entrances to and exits from supermarkets, petrol stations and other public parking areas, such as airports and hospitals. There are a number of different types of intersections, depending on how many roads meet at the intersection.
Different kinds of intersections
Driving up to an intersection If any other vehicle is approaching or crossing an intersection, do not speed up when approaching. As you drive up to an intersection, use the system of car control. This method helps you deal with hazards safely.
Course (look ahead for a safe and legal path). Mirrors (look behind and in your blind spots). Signal for at least three seconds. Brakes (slow down so that you can give way if required). Gears (change if necessary).
When it is safe:
Accelerate up to traffic speed.
The red shading in the diagram below shows you which areas to check carefully before entering an intersection.
Approaching an intersection As you ride up to an intersection:
slow down and look in all directions: ahead, behind and to both sides be ready to stop if you have to.
The red shading in the diagram below shows you which areas to check carefully before entering an intersection.
Where to check at an intersection
What are the give way rules?
Road users must stop or give way as necessary at Stop signs, Give Way signs and traffic signals. If you are turning, give way to vehicles not turning. Note: if you are leaving the path of a marked centre line, you are deemed to be turning and must give way to vehicles that are following the centre line. If you are turning right, give way to all vehicles coming towards you including those turning left. Note: this applies if both vehicles are facing no signs or signals or the same signs or signals. At a T-intersection or driveway, traffic on a terminating road (bottom of the T) must give way to all traffic on a continuing road (top of the T).
In all other situations, give way to all vehicles coming from your right, eg at a crossroad controlled by traffic signals, when the signals have failed and all approaches have flashing yellow lights.
Two vehicles coming towards each other and turning right
When two vehicles are coming towards each other and both are turning right, no one should have to give way. This is because normally neither will cross the other's path, so both vehicles can turn safely. However, be careful if the other vehicle is a large truck or bus, as they may need more room to make the turn. Remember to check for traffic coming towards you that is going straight through the intersection (see The give way rules). Your view might be blocked by the turning vehicle. Important Giving way means that the road user you're giving way to (whether they are a driver, cyclist, pedestrian or any other kind of road user) doesn't need to stop, brake or slow down, swerve or take any other evasive action to avoid you.
At many intersections traffic is controlled by Stop signs, Give Way signs and traffic signals. See below for when to use the give way rules at these intersections. If a police officer is directing traffic you must obey his/her directions as they overrule the give way rules.
Stop sign At an intersection controlled by a Stop sign:
come to a complete stop (do not just slow down) stop where you can see vehicles coming from all directions stay stopped until you have given way to all other vehicles (this includes cycles and motorcycles, etc) if you and another vehicle are both facing Stop signs, use the give way rules (see The give way rules) you must not go until it is safe.
The word STOP and a single yellow line will be painted on the road.
Intersection with a Stop sign
Helpful hint If you are are turning right, give way to all vehicles coming towards you who are turning left.
Give Way sign At an intersection controlled by a Give Way sign:
slow down and be ready to stop give way to all other vehicles, except those facing a Stop sign if you and another vehicle are both facing a Give Way sign, use the give way rules (see The give way rules) you must not go until it is safe.
A triangle give way marking and a white line will be painted on a sealed road. A car facing a Stop sign gives way to a car facing a Give Way sign.
The give way rules There are give way rules that apply at intersections and driveways.
If you are turning, give way to all traffic that is not turning.
This includes giving way to cyclists using cycle and bus lanes, and vehicles using bus lanes.
It also applies when both vehicles are facing the same control, such as Stop signs, Give Way signs and green traffic signals.
If you are leaving the path of a marked centre line at an uncontrolled intersection, you must give way to vehicles following the centre line. This is because vehicles leaving the path of the centre line are legally turning (even though sometimes they might actually be going in a straight line) and the give way rules apply.
If you are turning right and the opposing vehicle is turning left, you must give way.
If the road you are on terminates (bottom of the T), give way to traffic on the continuing road (top of the T). This also applies at driveways.
You must give way to all traffic on the road and any road user on a footpath, cycle path or shared path.
In all other situations give way to your right. An example would be at a crossroads controlled by traffic signals when signals have failed and all approaches have a flashing yellow light.
The give way rules from 25 March 2012 Download our publication which gives an overview of the give way rules from 25 March 2012 (PDF, 1.25 MB, 8 pages).
Traffic signals The following rules apply at an intersection controlled by traffic signals (also known as traffic lights):
A red signal means stop.
Red signal
A green signal means you can go, provided it is safe and: o if you are turning right, you give way to vehicles coming towards you that are going straight through,or vehicles turning left. o you give way to pedestrians crossing. This includes riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational devices.
Green signal
A yellow signal means stop, unless you are so close to the intersection that you can't stop safely. A yellow signal indicates that the lights will soon turn red.
Yellow signal
A flashing yellow signal means the traffic signals are not working. In this case, you must apply the give way rules for uncontrolled intersections.
Flashing yellow signal
Arrow traffic signals When arrows are displayed on traffic signals, they apply only to vehicles going in the direction the arrow is pointing. For example:
A red arrow means you must stop if you are travelling in the direction the arrow is pointing.
Red arrow
A yellow arrow means you must stop if you are travelling in the direction the arrow is pointing, unless you are so close to the intersection that you can't stop safely.
Yellow arrow
A green arrow means you can go if you are travelling in the direction the arrow is pointing, provided it is safe.
Green arrow
Reading the traffic signals The following examples will help you get to know what traffic signals and arrows mean. Signal
Vehicle path
Action
Turning left
Must stop. The red arrow protects pedestrians crossing the road.
Straight through
May go, provided it is safe.
Turning right
May go provided: > it is safe, and > you give way to vehicles coming towards you that are going straight through the intersection.
Turning left
May go, provided it is safe.
Straight through
May go, provided it is safe.
Turning right
Must stop, unless it is not safe to do so.
Turning left
May go, provided it is safe.
Straight through
May go, provided it is safe.
Turning right
May go, provided it is safe. All vehicles coming towards you should be stopped.
Turning left
Must stop.
Straight through
Must stop.
Turning right
May go, provided it is safe. All vehicles coming towards you should be stopped.
Cycle, tram and bus signals At some intersections, there are special signals for cycles, trams and buses. Cycles, trams and buses can move when these signals are on, but all other vehicles must wait for the appropriate green traffic signal.
Special traffic signals
Giving way at roundabouts A roundabout is a central island in the middle of an intersection, where all vehicles must travel to the left of the island. Roundabouts can be small, large, single-laned or multi-laned. The number of roads that come into a roundabout can range from three to five or even more.
Single-laned roundabouts When you come up to a roundabout that has only one lane in each direction:
slow down as you come up to the roundabout give way to all vehicles that will cross your path from your right as you enter the roundabout.
Single-laned roundabout
Multi-laned roundabouts Most roundabouts that have more than one lane in each direction are marked with lanes and arrows, which help you enter and leave the roundabout. The lane markings and arrows will tell you which lane to use. Not all roundabouts are marked the same way, so take extra care – especially at the exits. If you need to cross from one lane to another near an exit, give way to any vehicles in the lane that you want to enter. When coming up to a multi-laned roundabout:
try to get into the correct lane give way to all vehicles that will cross your path from your right as you enter the roundabout.
Multi-laned roundabout
Signal use at roundabouts If you are turning left at the first exit of a roundabout:
signal left as you come up to the roundabout.
Single-laned roundabout
Multi-laned roundabout
If you are travelling more than halfway around a roundabout:
signal right as you come up to the roundabout signal left as you pass the exit before the one you wish to take.
Single-laned roundabout
Multi-laned roundabout
If you are going 'straight' through a roundabout:
don't signal as you come up to the roundabout signal left as you pass the exit before the one you wish to take. At some small roundabouts it may not be possible to give three seconds warning, but it is courteous to give as much indication as you can.
Single-laned roundabout
Multi-laned roundabout
Look out for cyclists who may find it difficult to maintain a turn signal on a roundabout and are exempt from this requirement. Important At roundabouts, look out for vehicles that:
may have to change lanes to exit may not be able to stay in their lane because they are: o large (for example, buses) o travelling too fast.
Roundabout signs Some of the signs you may see at a roundabout are shown below. The sign below tells you that you are coming up to a roundabout. You should be ready to give way.
Roundabout
The sign below tells you to keep to the left of the traffic island as you come up to the roundabout.
Keep left
The signs below tell you that you must apply the roundabout give way rules.
Give Way
The picture below shows you where you can expect to see these signs at a roundabout.
Roundabout signs
Giving way at railway level crossings A railway level crossing is a point where the road crosses over a railway line. This means you drive over the railway tracks and could come into the path of a train. Because of this, you need to be very careful around railway level crossings to avoid a very serious crash.
Crossing a railway level crossing The signs below are some of the signs you may see when coming up to a railway level crossing.
Railway level crossing signs
When you see one of these signs:
slow down and be ready to stop as you come up to the railway crossing, search up and down the railway line. You will need to search further up the railway line, as trains often travel at a higher speed than vehicles on the road cross only if you are sure there are no trains coming in either direction and there are no vehicles stopped in front of you on the other side of the crossing.
At railway level crossings controlled by signals, bells and barrier arms Many railway level crossings are controlled by flashing red signals, bells and/or barrier arms, as shown below.
Railway level crossing signals and barrier arms
You must stop if the signals have started flashing, the bells have started ringing and/or the barrier arm has started to lower. Don't cross until the barrier arms have lifted, the lights have stopped flashing and the bells have stopped ringing.
At railway level crossings controlled by a Stop sign or Give Way sign Railway level crossings that aren't controlled by signals, bells or barrier arms may be controlled by a Stop sign or a Give Way sign. At railway crossings controlled by Stop or Give Way signs:
make sure you can see in both directions along the railway line if there is a Stop sign, come to a complete stop before the railway line (there will usually be one or two yellow lines showing you where to stop) only cross the railway line if you are sure that there are no trains coming in either direction and there are no vehicles stopped in front of you on the other side of the crossing take extra care if there is more than one railway line.
Railway level crossing signs
Important safety advice for railway level crossings
Never try to cross the railway line unless there is enough space for your vehicle on the other side of the line. Never pass a vehicle that has stopped for a train. Never try to race a train over the crossing.
Following other vehicles over railway level crossings Take special care when following other vehicles when coming up to a railway level crossing. Some vehicles (such as buses and vehicles carrying dangerous goods) are legally required to come to a complete stop before crossing, even when there are no lights flashing or bells ringing.
Giving way on one-lane bridges Some roads in New Zealand have one-lane bridges on them. At these bridges, vehicles travelling in one direction have to give way to vehicles going in the other direction. All one-lane bridges are clearly signposted, showing who should give way.
Signs that show you must give way on one-lane bridges If you have to give way at a one-lane bridge, you should see one or both of the warning signs shown below. The first warning sign has a yellow diamond-shaped sign to tell you that you are coming up to a one-lane bridge and a round sign with a red border to tell you that you must give way to vehicles coming towards you.
First warning sign
The second warning sign reminds you that you must give way.
Second warning sign
Signs that show that other drivers should give way to you on a one-lane bridge If other drivers should give way to you on a one-lane bridge, you will see the sign shown below as you come up to the bridge. The big white arrow on the blue rectangle shows that you can go onto the bridge first. Slow down and check for vehicles that may already be on the bridge, before driving on.
Others should give way to you
Important When coming up to a one-lane bridge, take note of the signs:
a red circle shows you must give way a blue rectangle shows that other vehicles should give way to you.
Stopping and parking How to park safely It's not only moving vehicles that are potential hazards on the road. Parked vehicles can be hazards too. That's why it's important to follow the safe parking rules and guidelines shown in this section.
Safe parking rules By law, you must follow these rules when parking:
Indicate for at least three seconds before slowing down to park. Park parallel to the road and as close to the left as possible, unless you are parking in an area where angle parking is permitted. There will be lines on the road (or signs) to show where you can angle park. Move as far off the road as possible when stopping or parking on a road with fast-moving traffic. Always check for passing vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians before opening your door. Be careful when pulling out of a parking space. Don't forget to: o check for vehicles o signal for at least three seconds before pulling out. A motor vehicle must not be parked on the road during the hours of darkness unless it is clearly visible to other road users. This means it should be lit by street lights, or you should turn on the tail lights and the side light nearest the centre of the road on the front of the vehicle. A light, flat-decked vehicle that is parked on the street at night must display a rear red light that: o is on the side of the vehicle closest to the centre of the road o is visible at a distance of 100 metres.
Safe parking guidelines Following the guidelines below will ensure that when you park your vehicle it won't move forward or backward:
When parking uphill on a steep road: o turn the front wheels away from the kerb o leave your car in first gear if it's manual or in park if it's automatic o apply your handbrake. When parking downhill on a steep road: o turn the front wheels towards the kerb o leave your car in reverse gear if it's manual or in park if it's automatic o apply your handbrake.
Safety tip When there is lots of traffic, it's a good idea to get out of your car on the side away from the traffic.
Where not to park For your own safety, and the safety and convenience of other road users, there are certain areas where you must not park. You risk being fined and/or having your vehicle towed away if you park in these areas. You must not park or stop your vehicle:
on the right-hand side of the road, except in a one-way street where it will be in the way of other people using the road (including pedestrians) near a corner, curve, hill, traffic island or intersection, if it will stop other people from seeing along the road on the road, if you can park the vehicle off the road without damaging grass or gardens (a controlling authority may have a bylaw and/or signs prohibiting parking on a grass verge) on any footpath on a traffic island (whether it is flush or raised) on, or closer than 6 metres to, an intersection, unless there are parking spaces or a notice telling you that you can park there on, or closer than 6 metres to, the approach side of a pedestrian crossing on a marked bus stop or taxi stand closer than 6 metres to a bus stop marked only by a sign in front of, or closer than 1 metre to, a vehicle entrance alongside another parked vehicle – that is, you must not double-park on 'no stopping' lines (broken yellow lines) marked within 1 metre of the edge of the road, which you may see near pedestrian crossings, intersections, driveways or narrow roads where traffic signs say you must not stop or park where a sign says that part of the road is reserved for specified kinds of vehicles (for example, bus, taxi or goods service vehicles) – in many cases, this restriction is marked by a broken yellow line more than 1 metre from the kerb in a cycle lane in a bus or transit lane during the hours of operation as indicated by signs on, or closer than 500mm to, a fire hydrant, unless somebody who can move the vehicle stays with it on a yellow circle on the road containing a rectangle (as shown below) or between the circle and the footpath, unlesssomebody who can move the vehicle stays with it. without due care and consideration for other road users. You must leave sufficient room between your vehicle and any adjacent parked vehicles to allow easy access.
Fire hydrant road marking
Indicates the direction of the fire hydrant
Parking signs You must obey all parking signs.
Examples of parking signs Any parking sign that has a red border around the outside means that you cannot stop there at any time, unless other times are shown. Below are some examples of parking signs and what they mean.
You must not stop here between the times shown on the sign. If you do, your car will be towed away. You will have to pay the tow fee to get your car back
You must not stop for the distance shown on the sign
You cannot stop here at any time
You can stop after you pass this sign
You can't stop between 8am and 6pm in the direction shown by the arrow
You may not stop here at any time. Only buses can stop here
All other parking signs apply between 8am and 6pm, other than public holidays covered by section 44(1) of the Holidays Act 2003 (Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, etc), unless other times are shown.
The number shown under the 'P' shows how many minutes you can park for
A coupon must be displayed on the window of the vehicle if you park here
Only motorcycles can park here
Any vehicle can stop here to unload goods or people, but the vehicle must not be left unattended for more than five minutes
Only goods service vehicles can stop here to unload goods or people, but the vehicle must not be left unattended for more than five minutes
Parking for people with disabilities Parking areas with the sign shown below are set aside to give mobility parking permit holders easy access to places such as supermarkets, libraries and community centres. To park here you must display a mobility parking permit on your front window. Otherwise, you may be fined or have your vehicle towed away. For information on how to get a permit, and the special parking conditions that go with it, contact CCS Disability Action or your local council.
Only vehicles displaying a mobility parking permit can park here
Mobility parking permit
Stopping at intersections, railway level crossings and pedestrian crossings When traffic is heavy, queues of vehicles can build up quickly. If you find yourself in a traffic queue, it is important that you don't block other roads, railway lines or pedestrian crossings. Always follow the blocking rule.
Blocking rule You must not go into or attempt to cross the intersection, railway level crossing, pedestrian crossing or an area controlled by pedestrian traffic signals, unless there is space for your vehicle on the other side of the intersection or crossing.
Not blocking the intersection
In the illustration above, vehicle A must not go into the intersection because there is no space ahead. Vehicles B and C can go into the intersection because there is enough space ahead.
You must not go into, or attempt to cross, a pedestrian crossing, unless there is space for your vehicle on the other side of the crossing.
Blocking the area controlled by pedestrian traffic signals
The vehicle in the illustration above is blocking the area controlled by pedestrian traffic signals.
When conditions change Driving in bad weather If it is raining, icy, snowing or foggy, conditions on the road will be more dangerous. You need to drive with extra care.
Tips for driving in bad weather Check your car Effective brakes, tyres, windscreen wipers, lights and steering are even more crucial in wet weather. Check your vehicle regularly to make sure they are all in good condition.
Adjust your driving Wet, frosty or icy roads can be very slippery. You need to increase your following distance because it takes longer to stop on a slippery surface. You should increase your following distance by using the four-second rule).
Watch your visibility Visibility (how far you can see) can be seriously reduced by rain, snow or fog. This can increase the risk of a crash. To improve visibility, keep all windows and mirrors clean. Don't let windows fog up – turn on the demister or open a window.
Brake carefully Unless your vehicle has ABS brakes, don't brake too hard when it is wet. You may go into a dangerous skid. Instead, pump the brakes gently.
If your vehicle has ABS brakes, never pump the brakes in an emergency. Keep the pedal pressed down hard and steer out of trouble. Don't become overconfident in your driving just because your vehicle has ABS brakes.
Reduce speed On a wet road, driving at the speed limit could be too fast for the conditions. You can lose control very easily in the wet, especially if you have to brake suddenly, so slow down.
Dip your headlamps in fog If you drive with your lamps on full beam in fog, the light will just reflect back on you. Dip your lights – it will be much easier to see. Don't just turn your park lights on. They are hard for oncoming drivers to see and do little to improve your vision. You can use front fog lights when driving in fog. These have a wide, low beam and produce either a white or yellow light. Rear fog lights, which produce a high-intensity red light, should only be used when visibility is very bad. (In normal conditions they can dazzle drivers following you.) Fog lights should be switched off as driving conditions improve.
Night driving When to use headlights You must turn on your vehicle's headlights:
from 30 minutes after sunset on one day, until 30 minutes before sunrise on the next day at any other time when you can't clearly see a person or vehicle 100 metres away.
Never drive with just the park lights on. (Note: park lights are now referred to as position lights.)
When to dip your vehicle's headlights You must dip your vehicle's headlights:
when when when when
other vehicles are coming towards you, so that you don't blind the oncoming driver you are following other vehicles a police officer is directing traffic you park.
Dipping headlights for an oncoming vehicle
Dipping headlights when following another vehicle
If there is plenty of street light, you should be able to drive with your headlights dipped the whole time.
Speed at night At night, just as during the daytime, you must drive at a safe speed. This means that:
on a road with lanes, you must be able to stop in the length of clear road you can see in front of you on a road with no lanes, you must be able to stop in half the length of clear road you can see in front of you.
Safety tips for night driving Driving at night is more dangerous than driving during the day. To improve your safety on the road at night:
make sure your windscreen and lights are clean never wear dark glasses watch for pedestrians and cyclists – they are harder to see at night stop and rest if you are sleepy don't blind other drivers with your vehicle's headlights – dip them when vehicles are coming towards you or when you are following another vehicle if you are blinded by the lights of oncoming vehicles: o slow down or stop o try to keep your eyes on the left side of the road, so you're not looking directly at the light drive at a speed that means you can see the road at least two seconds ahead.
Driving at night
Use markers to guide you when driving at night Many roads have reflectors and guide posts to help you 'read' the road at night. Some examples of these are shown below.
Left side of road marker post
Left side of bridge
Left side of road
No passing
Right side of road marker post indicating left-hand bend
Right side of bridge
Centre line
Fire hydrant
Important Be aware that at night, because most road signs are highly reflective, your lights shining on them may make you think you can clearly see further than you really can. Make sure you drive more slowly and carefully at night, particularly on unfamiliar roads.
Roadworks Road repair crews often have to work on roads to keep them in good condition. This means you will sometimes come across heavy vehicles, machinery and workers on the road, which you must be careful around. The road surface itself can also be dangerous when under repair, as it may be uneven or have new seal. When you see a roadworks sign, always slow down and be ready to stop.
Obey the signs If there are roadworks on the road ahead, it will always be clearly signposted. Slow down and read the signs. They will prepare you for the particular hazards you are about to face. Two of the signs commonly used to indicate roadworks are shown below.
Roadworks ahead
Because it can be dangerous to drive through roadworks or on new seal, temporary speed limit signs are often posted. You must drive at or below the speed shown on the temporary speed limit sign.
Obey any directions given Road repair crews may sometimes need to stop traffic. They may use temporary traffic signals or hand-held 'Stop/Go' signs (shown below) to do this.
Stop before reaching the sign
You may move forward carefully
Follow all directions given to you, otherwise you could be involved in a serious crash. Important Crashes can happen when drivers ignore roadworks warning signs and temporary speed limits. Don't take these warnings lightly. You don't know what's ahead, so slow down and take care.
Detour signs When a road is being maintained or is closed you may see detour signs which offer you an alternative way around the road block. You should follow the direction signs and expect to see them when approaching and leaving intersections. Take note of the shape and colour of the symbol on detour signage as one detour may pass through another.
Detour signs
Lane change signs When roads or lanes are being maintained, an attenuator (truck with message board on it) is often used. Its purpose is to direct traffic to an open lane in advance of roadworks. Slow down and obey the arrow.
Attenuator
Sunstrike Sunstrike can occur at any time during the day, but is most likely during sunrise or sunset, when the sun’s rays hit your windscreen at a low angle. To avoid a crash, follow the guidelines shown below.
Reducing the danger of sunstrike
Be prepared for possible sunstrike when driving at sunrise or sunset, especially when turning or driving towards the sun. Be especially careful in winter, when sunstrike is more likely to occur because the sun is lower in the sky. Keep your windscreen clean, inside and out. Dust and grime on the windscreen can make the effects of sunstrike much worse. Wear sunglasses when driving with the sun in your eyes. Use your car's sun visors to block the sun. If you experience sunstrike, it may be best to pull over and wait for a few minutes until your eyes adjust or visibility improves. Be careful if snow has fallen and the sky is clear – sunlight shining on snow can cause 'snow blindness', which produces similar effects to sunstrike.
Road surface There are three main types of surface used on New Zealand's roads and highways:
asphalt chip-seal unsealed surfaces.
You may need to adjust your driving to suit the particular surface you are driving on and how each type of surface can affect your vehicle's handling. You should also be alert for changes in the road surface.
Asphalt Asphalt has a smooth, black appearance and produces a low level of road noise when you drive over it. It's often used on busy roads and curves because it stands up well to wear caused by braking vehicles.
Asphalt provides good overall grip, but has reduced skid resistance when it is wet. This means you should slow down and take extra care when driving on asphalt in wet weather.
Asphalt
Chip-seal Chip-seal consists of a thin layer of stones set in tar. It has a rough appearance when in good condition, but may wear smooth with age and frequent use. Worn chip-seal has reduced skid resistance, so be alert for smooth patches as you drive. Slow down on newly laid chip-seal. There may be patches of loose chips, which can increase your risk of skidding. Loose chips can also be thrown up when vehicles drive over them and could break your windscreen.
Chip-seal
Unsealed surfaces Depending on the geographic area unsealed roads can be clay, pumice or gravel (sometimes called ‘loose metal’). These roads tend to be minor roads in rural areas.
Because the surface of the road is loose, it can move under your wheels and offers very low skid resistance. Loose stones may also be thrown up by vehicles. Because of this, you need to drive very carefully on gravel roads. Adjust your speed to suit the conditions. You will also need to take extra care in dry weather, as your visibility may be reduced by dust that will be thrown up by any vehicles in front of you. Always increase your following distance to stay back from the dust cloud.
Gravel
Hazards and emergencies Dealing with hazards As a driver, you will constantly face hazards on the road. A hazard is any object or situation that could be dangerous. Hazards include:
intersections (including driveways) curves or bends in the road pedestrian crossings the position or movement of other road users, such as other vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians changes in weather and road conditions.
To deal with hazards safely, you should get into the habit of using the hazard action plan and system of car control described in this section.
The hazard action plan When you're driving you should always be:
identifying potential hazards that could affect you predicting how the hazard might develop and endanger your safety deciding what action to take to negotiate the hazard acting on your decision by using the system of car control.
For example, if there are children playing near the kerb. They may run out after a ball or after each other. Using the system of vehicle control, choose a
course as far away from the children as possible (while still keeping on your side of the road), check the mirror, use the brakes and slow down.
The system of car control This system is a safe and simple method of driving that will help you deal with hazards safely. It ensures you are always positioned in the right place on the road, and travelling at the right speed and in the right gear. Use this system when you approach any type of hazard. Course: choose a safe and legal path. Mirrors: check your mirrors frequently to see the position of all other traffic around you. Signal: always signal if you intend to change your position on the road. Brake: use the brakes to reduce your speed. Gear: select the correct gear for the speed you have chosen. Accelerate: accelerate safely to leave the hazard.
Multiple hazards It is rare to come across only one hazard at a time when driving. Most of the time you will have to deal with several hazards at once. This means you will need to stay aware of all the hazards, but give most attention to the hazard that is most likely to develop into a dangerous situation and require you to take urgent action. For example, if there are children playing near the kerb. They may run out after a ball or after each other. Using the system of vehicle control, choose a course as far away from the children as possible (while still keeping on your side of the road), check the mirror, use the brakes and slow down.
Identifying the main hazard The following illustrations show scenes involving multiple hazards for the driver of the blue car. Remember, the main hazard is the one that is most likely to require you to take urgent action.
Hazard A is the main hazard. The cyclist is about to pull out around the parked car and move into the path of the blue car.
Hazard B is the main hazard. This car is reversing out of a parking space and about to enter the path of the blue car.
Hazard D is the main hazard. This car is about to turn across the path of the blue car.
Hazard B is the main hazard. The child's attention is focused on the adult on the other side of the road. Remember, the child may try to cross the road without looking.
Safe driving tips Extend your vision One of the most important things you can do to be a safer driver is to look well ahead of you when you're driving, so you can pick up potentially dangerous situations before it's too late. The earlier you spot a potential hazard, the more time you will have to take evasive action. Rather than looking only as far as the vehicle in front of you when driving, you should actually be scanning the road in front to a distance of at least 12 seconds ahead of where your car is – that is, the place you will be after driving for 12 seconds. As a rough guide, at 50km/h, 12 seconds is 166 metres or about two city blocks. At 100km/h, 12 seconds is 333 metres. This means at 100km/h you should look ahead as far as you can see.
Keep your eyes moving Many people only look ahead of them when driving. This means they're not getting the full picture of what's happening on the road. As well as looking ahead, you should also use your mirrors to look to the sides and behind often enough to be aware of surrounding traffic. Moving your eyes regularly and concentrating on what's going on around you will also help you to stay alert on long journeys.
Create a safety cushion You should create a 'cushion' of safety around your whole vehicle by making sure there is a safe distance in all directions between you, other vehicles and potential hazards. This will give you and other road users more time and space to avoid any hazards.
Create a cushion of safety ahead of you by maintaining a safe following distance. Use the two-second rule or thefour-second rule when appropriate. Create a cushion of safety behind you by maintaining a safe distance between you and any following vehicles. If a vehicle is following you too closely, slow down, move over and let it pass as soon as you can do so safely. Create a safety cushion to your sides by keeping a safe distance from any hazards on your sides, such as driveways, parked vehicles, cyclists or children playing on the footpath.
Important The cheapest insurance you can have is space around your vehicle. The more space you have the safer you will be.
Don't get distracted It's easy to get distracted when you're driving. Things like music, talking passengers, passing scenery and roadside advertising can all divert your attention from your driving and the road. You must learn to ignore distractions and concentrate on your driving when you're behind the wheel. If, for any reason, you must look away from the road, follow the pointers below:
Check well ahead and behind for any potential hazards. Don't look away if you can see potential hazards. Remember if you do look away from the road make sure you don't go off course. Never take your eyes off the road for longer that is absolutely necessary. For example, while driving at 90km/h, if you took your eyes off the road for two seconds you will travel 50 metres.
Identify escape routes Following the tips above will help you avoid many potentially dangerous crashes. However, despite all your best efforts, there may still be occasions when you find yourself on a direct collision course with another vehicle or other hazard. For this reason, it is wise to identify possible escape routes all the time while you're driving. That way, if you find yourself in danger of a crash, you'll be ready to take quick evasive action. Most escape routes will be to your left, so take note of what's on the left-hand side of the road as you drive. Ask yourself questions like:
'Is there a wide shoulder I could steer onto?' 'Can I steer off the road safely if I need to?'
If there are no safe escape routes, reduce your speed and increase your following distance so you can stop in plenty of time if a crash situation develops. Furthering your driver education As a driver, you never stop learning. You should always be looking for ways to improve your safe driving skills. Practice, combined with the right attitude, will help you refine your skills, but there are also courses you can take to help you become a safer driver. For information on advanced driver education courses in your area, visit Advanced driving skills courses or call our contact centre on 0800 822 422.
Tips for handling driving emergencies Sometimes, no matter how carefully you drive, you may still find yourself in an emergency situation. This section describes how to handle emergencies if they develop.
Skids Skids don't happen without reason. They are usually caused by:
heavy acceleration heavy braking changing direction suddenly driving too fast on wet or unsealed roads.
Different kinds of skids require you to take different corrective action. You should know what to do if your car goes into a skid. Note: the following guidelines relate only to vehicles with conventional brakes and not vehicles with ABS brakes If your vehicle has ABS brakes, never pump the brakes in an emergency. Keep the pedal pressed down hard and steer out of trouble.
Four-wheel skid In a four-wheel skid, all four wheels lock under heavy braking. You should:
pump your brakes gently so the wheels turn and grip the road again.
Four-wheel skid
Front-wheel skid (understeer) In a front-wheel skid, the vehicle goes in a straight line instead of following the direction your front wheels are turned in. In this kind of skid you shouldn't brake. You should:
push in the clutch (if driving a manual vehicle) take your foot off the accelerator turn the steering wheel in the direction that the vehicle is heading once you've regained control, let the clutch out.
Front-wheel skid
Rear-wheel skid (oversteer) In a rear-wheel skid, the rear of the vehicle swings out. In this kind of skid you shouldn't brake. You should:
push in the clutch (if driving a manual vehicle) take your foot off the accelerator turn the steering wheel in the direction that the rear wheels are sliding once you've regained control, let the clutch out.
Rear-wheel skid
Tyre blowouts Tyre blowouts can be dangerous, especially if you are driving fast, because they can cause your vehicle to lose control. A front-tyre blowout will usually cause the vehicle to 'pull' towards the side with the blowout. A rear-tyre blowout will usually cause the vehicle to sway from side to side. You can try to avoid having a blowout by checking your tyres regularly. It's important to have correct tyre pressure. If a tyre has a large cut or bulge, or is very worn, it needs to be replaced. If you do have a blowout while driving, you should:
grip the steering wheel tightly ease off the accelerator try to keep the vehicle on its path signal and steer to the side of the road once you've reduced speed.
Engine failure If your engine cuts out suddenly while driving, you must try to get the vehicle to the side of the road as quickly and safely as possible. You should:
signal and steer towards the side of the road put the gears into neutral – this will help you roll further put your hazard lights on once you've stopped.
If your vehicle has power steering, it will be difficult to steer once the engine is dead. Try not to be alarmed by the reduced control. Grip the wheel tightly and steer as best as you can.
Jammed accelerator An instinctive response of many drivers to a jammed accelerator is to turn the engine off. This isn't a good idea, particularly if your vehicle has power steering and braking, as this will make it much harder to steer and the brakes will be less effective. You should:
try to lift the accelerator up with your toes leave the vehicle in gear brake – the brakes will be strong enough to stop the vehicle, even with the engine going keep steering and look for a spot where you can safely pull of the road.
Shattered windscreen Shattered windscreens are becoming less common these days because modern vehicles are fitted with laminated windscreens, which crack but don't shatter. Stone chips can turn into cracks which weaken the screen. Always repair chips before they turn into cracks. If you are driving an older model vehicle and your windscreen shatters, you should:
steer by looking through the side window if you can't see through the shattered windscreen. If you have been concentrating on the road ahead by using the '12-second rule' you should have a good mental picture of the road, which will help you steer avoid pushing a hole in the shattered glass unless absolutely necessary. You will probably cut your hand and pieces of broken glass will be blown into your eyes pull over and stop as soon as possible once you have stopped, punch out the shattered glass using a jack or another tool. If no tools are available, wrap your hand in thick cloth (such as a jersey or towel) and carefully knock out the glass drive at a reduced speed to the nearest windscreen repairer.
Vehicle fire If you think your vehicle is on fire, you will need to act immediately. You should:
signal and pull over to the side of the road get yourself and any passengers out of the vehicle as quickly as possible keep everyone clear of the vehicle and try to warn oncoming traffic phone the fire service.
Don't try to put out the fire yourself, as you could inhale toxic fumes and there is also a danger the vehicle could explode.
Earthquake In a severe earthquake driving can be very difficult because the road may be shaking or moving up and down beneath you. If you think that an earthquake is happening while you're driving, you should:
pull over and stop stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops. Your vehicle will provide you with some protection against falling objects.
After the earthquake:
if power lines have fallen onto your vehicle, stay inside it until help arrives if you continue driving straight after the earthquake, be on the lookout for slips or other road damage and obstacles turn on your radio and listen for news about possible road closures and other information.
Submerged vehicle New Zealand has a high number of coastal and riverside roads and sometimes vehicles can end up underwater. Knowing what to do if you're ever in this situation can mean the difference between life and death.
If possible, get out of the vehicle while it's still afloat. It will normally sink within a matter of minutes. Escape by winding down the window. The weight of water against doors will usually make them too hard to open. Once submerged, water will gradually seep into the vehicle. Escape through the windows. If this isn't possible, wait until the vehicle is filled almost to head height with water. The doors will be easier to open then as the pressure inside the vehicle will be almost the same as it is outside. Before leaving the vehicle, turn the lights on so rescuers can find it more easily. Form a human chain with any other passengers as you leave the vehicle. This will make sure you all stay together.
Bonnet flying up You can try to avoid having your bonnet fly up by:
remembering to re-fasten your vehicle's bonnet securely whenever you open it pulling over to the side of the road immediately if you notice the bonnet flexing or coming loose while you are driving.
If the bonnet flies up while you are driving you should:
steer by looking through the gap under the hinge of the bonnet or out the side window brake smoothly, indicate and move over to the left-hand side of the road.
Brake failure If your vehicle's brakes fail, it will be an alarming experience. You can try to avoid this happening by checking your brakes regularly. Always replace worn brake pads immediately and top up the brake fluid levels whenever necessary. If your brakes do fail while driving:
change to a lower gear – automatic vehicles included – to help slow the vehicle down pump the brakes hard and quickly to make use of any capacity still left in the hydraulic brake system gradually pull up on the handbrake – don't pull too hard or you may cause the rear wheels to lock warn other road users by switching on your headlights and hazard lights and sounding your horn look for an 'escape route', such as a wide shoulder of the road, a flat field or an uphill road if you are travelling downhill and the vehicle is starting to lose control, try to scrape against something on the side of the road, such as a safety rail, a bank or the kerb.
Headlight failure It's uncommon for both headlights to fail while you are driving, but it can happen. If your headlights do fail while you're driving, you should:
slow down move off the road gradually and stop somewhere safe turn your hazard lights on.
Avoiding a head-on crash A head-on crash is probably the most dangerous type of crash you can be involved in. This is because when two vehicles collide head-on the force of the impact is usually twice as much as it is when a vehicle hits a non-moving object. If you find yourself heading towards a head-on crash, there are some things you can do to try and avoid the crash or limit its damage:
Brake hard. Every kilometre of speed that you slow down by will lessen the impact of a crash if it happens. Flash your headlights and blow your horn to attract the attention of the other driver. Look for an escape route to your left, even if it means driving off the road. A roll-over accident is likely to be less dangerous than a head-on crash. Don't swerve to your right. The other driver is mostly likely to respond by swerving to their left and you would be likely to crash into each other.
About limits This section introduces you limits that you need to know about when driving: speed limits, alcohol limits and your own limits – how to avoid driver fatigue.
Speed limits Alcohol and drugs limits Driver fatigue
Speed limits Excessive speed is one of the biggest killers on our roads. On average, 130 people die every year in New Zealand in speed-related crashes. Remember, the faster you go, the more likely you are to be killed or seriously injured if you crash.
Safe speed guidelines You can drive at any speed under or equal to the limit, provided:
your speed is safe for the traffic conditions (for example, slow down if you are on a busy road, or if there are pedestrians or cyclists around) your speed is safe for the road conditions (for example, slow down if the road is winding, bumpy, narrow, wet or icy) your speed is safe for the weather conditions (for example, slow down if it is raining, windy or foggy) you can stop suddenly behind a vehicle that you’re following – if a vehicle ahead of you stops suddenly and you run into the back of it, you will be legally responsible you can stop in half the length of clear road you can see in front of you on a road with no centre line or lanes (for example, a narrow country road where vehicles may meet head-on) you can stop in the length of clear lane you can see in front of you on a road with a centre line or lanes.
Slow drivers If you are travelling slower than the speed limit and there are vehicles following you, you must:
keep as close to the left side of the road as possible pull over as soon as it is safe to let following vehicles pass.
Don’t speed up on straight stretches of road to prevent following vehicles from passing you.
Slow drivers
Compulsory speed signs A speed limit is the maximum legal speed that you can travel on the road under good conditions. Signs showing the speed limit are displayed beside the road. These signs usually have a red border, which means that the sign is compulsory. You may drive slower than the speed limit shown, but you must be considerate towards any vehicles behind you. You must drive slower than the limit if:
conditions make the speed limit shown unsafe, or you are driving a vehicle which requires you to drive at a lower speed (such as heavy vehicles, which have a lower speed limit than cars – see table below).
Some examples of speed signs are shown below.
The maximum speed you can travel is 50km/h
The maximum speed you can travel is 70km/h
A temporary speed limit of 30km/h applies. Temporary speed-limit signs are usually put up when there is work being done on or near the road
Important Speed limit changes take effect at the sign post. Before reaching the speed-limit sign make sure you:
reduce your speed, if the sign indicates a lower speed do not increase your speed until you pass the sign, if the sign indicates a higher speed.
Open road speed limits The signs below mean that the maximum speed that you can travel at is 100km/h.
Maximum speed 100km/h
The vehicles listed in the table below have a lower maximum speed limit.
When following other vehicles, remember that some vehicles have lower speed limits and you may have to adjust your speed. Some vehicles have a lower maximum speed limit, such as light vehicles towing trailers. Vehicle type
Maximum open road speed limit
Heavy motor vehicles (vehicles with a gross vehicle mass* of over 3500kg) and heavy motor vehicles towing trailers
90km/h
Vehicles with a gross vehicle mass* of over 2000kg and are displaying school bus signs
80km/h
Light vehicles towing trailers
90km/h
Heavy vehicles constructed without springs or other forms of suspension, between its road wheels and its chassis
45 km/h
* Gross vehicle mass (GVM) is the greater of:
the mass specified as the GVM of a particular vehicle by the vehicle's manufacturer the mass specified as the GVM of a particular vehicle (or a vehicle of its kind) by the NZTA.
Important If a driver exceeds a permanent posted speed limit by more than 40km/h, there is an automatic 28-day licence suspension. If a driver exceeds a temporary speed limit by more than 50km/h, there is an automatic 28-day licence suspension.
Other signs that mean you must adjust your speed Accident sign The signs below mean that you are coming up to a crash site. Slow down and drive at 20km/h or less until you have passed the crash site.
Accident
School bus signs The signs below will be displayed on school buses. If a school bus has stopped to let children on or off, you must slow down and drive at 20km/h or less until you are well past the bus, no matter what direction you are coming from.
School bus signs
Note: you may also see ‘Kura’, the Māori word for school, on a bus.
Speed past schools Police will strictly enforce a 4km/h tolerance of the posted speed limit outside schools, kindergartens and playcentres during high-use times. This will apply within 250 metres of the boundaries on each side of the school.
School zones Some schools display signs that are turned on before and after school and other times such as lunch time. Examples are shown below.
This sign will be displayed at the start of the school zone. If the 40 is visible and the yellow lights are flashing, the maximum speed is 40km/h until the zone ends.
This sign will be on a side road.
Curve warning signs The signs below warn you that you are coming up to a tight curve or bend in the road. The number recommends a safe and comfortable speed to drive at around the curve – in this example the recommended speed is 35 km/h. The arrows show which direction the curve goes.
Curve warning signs
Variable speed limit signs Variable speed signs are used to manage traffic congestion. You need to adjust your speed accordingly.
Variable speed signs
Alcohol and drugs limits Alcohol and drugs, including some drugs given to you by a doctor, can seriously affect your driving. They can slow your reaction times and affect your senses. You risk causing death and serious injury to yourself and other people if you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Legal alcohol limits for driving The law says you must not drive if the amount of alcohol in your blood or breath exceeds certain age-related limits. These limits are shown below. Under twenty There is a zero alcohol limit if you are under 20. That means if you drive after consuming even one drink you can be charged with drink driving. If you have an alcohol level of less than 150 micrograms per litre of breath and less than 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood you could be fined and given 50 demerit points. If your alcohol limit is higher, you could be disqualified from driving, given 50 demerit points and either fined or imprisoned. Twenty or over You must not drive if you have consumed more than the legal alcohol limit, which is 400 micrograms per litre of breath or 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. It is difficult to say how many alcoholic drinks you can have before you reach these limits. It depends on many factors, including:
whether you are male or female your size how much food you have eaten.
Because of this, and because even small amounts of alcohol can affect your driving, the best advice is: if you drink at all, don't drive. If you've been drinking, call a taxi, take a bus or get someone who hasn't been drinking, such as a friend or 'dial-a-driver', to drive you home.
Drugs and driving The law also says you must not drive if you have taken any type of drug that may affect your driving ability. If you are prescribed drugs by a doctor, always ask if they will have any effect on your driving.
Testing for alcohol and drugs You can be stopped by the police and breath-tested at any time. The police can use the following tests to see if you have been drinking or taking drugs. Passive breath test The police officer will place a hand-held device in front of your mouth and ask you to talk into it. This will show if you have recently drunk any alcohol. If any alcohol is detected, a breath screening test will be required.
Breath screening test The police officer will give you a small electronic device, and will ask you to blow into it. If your alcohol level is high, you will be asked to take an evidential breath test or have a blood test. Evidential breath test This is an electronic device you blow into, which gives a reading that can be used in court as evidence of your breath–alcohol concentration. Blood test If you have a blood test, a medical doctor or other approved person will take a sample of your blood to be tested for alcohol or drugs.
Compulsory (drug) impairment test This includes an eye assessment, a walk and turn, and a one leg stand assessment. If you fail you may be forbidden to drive and required to have a blood test.
When are the tests carried out? A police officer can ask you to take a passive breath test or breath screening test if:
you are suspected of drinking and driving you are signalled to stop at a Police alcohol check point.
You must wait with the officer for the result of the test. If the test shows you have been drinking, you must:
take a further test – this will be either an evidential breath test or a blood test hand over the keys to your vehicle, if asked by a police officer go with a police officer, if required agree to a blood test, if asked by a police officer, medical doctor or other approved person.
If you don't, you may be arrested. A compulsory impairment test can be required if a police officer has good cause to suspect that you are impaired by a drug or drugs. This could be because of your erratic driving, or if you have been stopped for another reason and appear to be under the influence of drugs.
What are your rights? You may:
choose not to take a breath screening or evidential breath test – however, if you: o refuse a breath screening test, you will be asked to take an evidential breath test o refuse an evidential breath test, you must undergo a blood test choose to have a blood test if an evidential breath test shows you are over the legal limit. The court will take the results of the blood test over the results of the evidential breath test talk to a lawyer (if you wish to) after a positive breath screening test and before an evidential breath or blood test – a telephone will be made available to you for this purpose.
If your blood test shows you are over the legal limit, you will be given a copy of the blood test certificate. You may ask for your blood sample to be tested by an independent analyst. If you want this to happen, it’s important that you talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.
What are the penalties? The following table shows some of the penalties for driving offences related to alcohol and drugs.
Court-imposed penalties for alcohol/drugs offences Offence
Amount of alcohol
Penalty
Blood
Breath
Prison
Fine
You kill or injure someone when driving after drinking too much or taking drugs
More than 80mg per 100ml
More than 400mcg per litre
Up to 10 years
Up to First or second $20,000 offence - one year or more, third or subsequent offence - more than one year
You drive, or try to drive, after drinking too much or taking drugs
More than 80mg per 100ml
More than 400mcg per litre
First and second offences
Up to three months
Up to $4500
Disqualification or suspension of licence
Six months or more
Third and subsequent offences
Up to two years
Up to $6000
More than one year
You drive, or try to drive, after drinking too much
More than 80mg per 100ml
More than 400mcg per litre
Second and subsequent offences The court may impose a zero alcohol licence in addition to the penalties listed above.
You drive, or try to drive, after drinking too much
More than 160mg per 100ml
More than 800mcg per litre
First and subsequent offences The court may impose an alcohol interlock disqualification with an accompanying three months disqualification period as an alternative to the penalties listed below.
You drive, or try to drive, after drinking too much or taking drugs and you are aged under 20 years
More than 30mg per 100ml
More than 150mcg per litre
Up to three months
You refuse to give blood when asked by a police officer, doctor or approved person
Up to $2250
Three months or more
Up to $4500
Six months or more
First and second offence
Up to three months
Third and subsequent offences
Up to $6000
More than one year
You refuse to go with a police officer for an evidential breath test or blood test
Up to $4500
As decided by the court
You are in charge of a vehicle after drinking too much or taking drugs and you do not hand over the keys when asked by a police officer
Up to $10,000
Up to two years
Penalties for drug impaired driving or driving with class A drugs in the blood stream Offence
Penalty
Prison
You drive drug impaired but no one is injured, or fail or refuse to do the impairment test
Fine
Disqualification or suspension of licence
First or second offence
Up to three months
Up to $4500
At least six months
Third or subsequent offence
Up to two years
Up to $6000
More than one year
You drive drug impaired causing injury or death
Up to three years
Up to $10,000
One year or more
You drive carelessly causing injury or death with Class A drugs in the blood
Up to three years
Up to $10,000
One year or more
On-the-spot (roadside) licence suspension Your licence will be suspended on the spot if you refuse to have a blood test or if, following an evidential breath or blood test, you are found to have:
more than 130* milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, or more than 650* micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath.
* A lower threshold of 80 milligrams or 400 micrograms will apply if, in the previous four years, you have been convicted of:
driving or attempting to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving or attempting to drive with excess breath or blood alcohol, or failing or refusing to allow a blood sample to be taken, or causing death or injury while in charge of a motor vehicle and under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or with excess breath or blood alcohol.
Your licence will be suspended for 28 days and you will still have to face courtimposed penalties.
Repeat offences The penalties described above may be increased substantially for repeat offences.
In addition, if you commit two alcohol-related offences within a five-year period and one of those offences involves:
refusing to go with a police officer refusing to give a breath or blood sample driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs having a breath–alcohol level above 1000 micrograms having a blood–alcohol level above 200 milligrams per 100 millilitres
then you will be:
disqualified from driving for an indefinite period, and required to attend a Ministry of Health alcohol assessment centre.
If you commit an alcohol-related offence and:
your breath and/or blood alcohol levels are twice the legal limit or higher, or you have already been convicted of a previous offence within a five-year period
then you could be:
given an alcohol interlock disqualification with an accompanying three-month disqualification period, or given a zero alcohol disqualification.
Applying for removal of an indefinite disqualification You can apply for the removal of an alcohol-related indefinite disqualification if:
you have served at least one year and one day of the disqualification, and you receive a satisfactory report from a Ministry of Health approved assessment centre.
The disqualification can only be ended by the NZTA. Once it has been ended, you will be unlicensed and must not drive again until you apply to have your licence reinstated and a new licence has been issued. Before a new licence can be issued you will also need to sit and pass the relevant tests or complete approved courses.
Driver fatigue Many fatal crashes are caused by people driving when they are tired. If you feel tired, don't drive. Don't risk your life or those of other road users.
Tips to help you avoid driver fatigue
Get a good night's sleep before driving, preferably eight hours. Avoid driving during the hours when you are normally sleeping. For most people, this will be between 10pm and 6am. If you normally have a mid-afternoon nap, then you should avoid driving at that time. Make sure that following a period of sleep you are fully awake before driving. Don't drink even small amounts of alcohol. It will make the effects of fatigue much worse. When taking long trips, plan your journey to include rest breaks. Share the driving if possible. Snack on light, fresh foods. Avoid consuming fatty, sugary or carbohydrate-filled foods, which can make you tired.
Recognise the warning signs Some warning signs are:
having trouble focusing, keeping your eyes open or holding your head up daydreaming, wandering or disconnected thoughts, loss of memory yawning or rubbing your eyes repeatedly drifting from your lane, tailgating and missing signs or exits feeling restless and irritable.
Stop to revive, then drive During long trips, take rest breaks about every two hours or every 100 kilometres. If you start feeling sleepy:
don't keep driving – pull over immediately in a safe place (as far off the road as possible) move to the passenger seat and take a 15–20 minute power nap. A short sleep is very refreshing – try not to nap for a period longer than 40 minutes otherwise you may feel groggy and disoriented when you wake up and for quite some time afterwards (this is called sleep inertia) wait at least 10 minutes to make sure that you are completely awake before you start driving again.
If you still feel sleepy don't drive, find a place to sleep for an extended period or for the night.
About driver responsibility Becoming a driver brings with it many responsibilities, which are explained in this section. Some are related to owning a motor vehicle, while others are the responsibility of all drivers.
Registered person's responsibilities Responsible driving Safety belts and child restraints Crashes Stepping over the line Tips on driving sustainably
Registered person's responsibilities If a motor vehicle is registered in your name, you are responsible for making sure that the following requirements are met.
Warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness All vehicles driven on New Zealand roads must have a current warrant of fitness (WoF) or certificate of fitness (CoF). SeeAbout your vehicle for more information about WoFs and CoFs.
Registration All vehicles driven on New Zealand roads must be registered. When you register a vehicle, it is added to the Motor Vehicles Register. Once a vehicle is registered, it is issued with registration plates and a current vehicle licence. A certificate of registration is also sent to the person registered as the owner. Before a vehicle can be registered, it must have been given a vehicle identification number (VIN) and been approved for registration by an approved vehicle inspector. Vehicle inspectors can be found at selected branches of the Automobile Association (AA), Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ), and Vehicle Inspection New Zealand (VINZ).
Relicensing Relicensing is sometimes confused with registration. Relicensing is the payment of a fee to use a vehicle on the road. All vehicles used on the road must be relicensed regularly and must display a current licence label on the windscreen. To get a vehicle licence, you must:
make sure your vehicle has a current WoF or CoF fill out the relicensing notice (MR1) that you should receive in the post, or fill out an Application to licence a motor vehicle (MR1B), which is available from any NZTA agent
pay the appropriate fee.
You can also relicense online at nzta.govt.nz/online. A vehicle licence is valid for up to 12 months. Most vehicles must be licensed continuously. This means that the licence fees must be paid from the expiry date of the previous licence (that is, if you renew your licence after the expiry date of the previous licence, the licence fees will be backdated and you must pay these). You can apply for an exemption from continuous licensing if you won’t be using your vehicle for a period of three months or more. An exemption means that when your licence expires, the licence fees won’t be backdated next time you relicense your vehicle. An exemption does not mean that you can use your vehicle on the road without a current licence. Talk to an NZTA agent for more information. If you don't:
relicense your vehicle, or apply for an exemption from continuous licensing
and the vehicle remains unlicensed for more than 12 months, its registration will lapse. You will still have to pay any backdated licence fees and, if the vehicle is to be used on a road again, it must be re-registered with new plates and registration papers. Your vehicle may also need to be certified by an approved vehicle inspector.
Road user charges You must pay road user charges (RUC) and obtain a RUC licence for your vehicle if:
it's powered by diesel, or any other fuel that doesn't include government tax in its purchase price (regardless of the vehicle's weight), or it has a manufacturer's gross laden weight of more than 3.5 tonnes (3500kg).
This is because diesel, unlike petrol, CNG and LPG, doesn’t include fuel excise duty in its purchase price. This tax contributes towards the upkeep of New Zealand's roads. RUC licences can be purchased from an NZTA agent or online from nzta.govt.nz/online. You'll be given a RUC licence label, which must be displayed on the inside of the windscreen. When buying or selling a vehicle that requires a RUC licence, the licence should be sold with the vehicle. The new owner will become responsible for paying any outstanding charges if the vehicle is sold without a current RUC licence.
Buying a motor vehicle Before you purchase a vehicle, an NZTA agent can check to see whether it is registered and licensed, or has been reported stolen. It's a good idea to do this before you buy the vehicle, because once you have bought it:
you will be liable for any outstanding fees owing on the vehicle you may lose the vehicle if it has been stolen.
Once you've bought a motor vehicle, you need to notify the NZTA within seven days of the sale. The seller may want to confirm that you've done this before they hand over the vehicle. You need to do the following:
Obtain the vehicle’s Certificate of registration from the seller. The form for changing who the vehicle is registered to is printed on the back of the certificate. If the seller has lost the certificate, you will need a Notice by person acquiring motor vehicle form (MR13B), available from an NZTA agent. Complete the Notice by person acquiring motor vehicle form and give it to an NZTA agent with the appropriate fee. Show the agent your New Zealand driver licence as evidence of identification. If you don't have your driver licence, you'll need to show other identification that includes your full name, signature and date of birth. Ask the agent to give you a transfer receipt. Take this to the seller when you pick up the vehicle – it shows you have changed the vehicle's registration into your name.
You can also complete this transaction online at nzta.govt.nz/online. A new Certificate of registration, showing the vehicle registered in your name, will be sent to you once you have completed the Notice by person acquiring motor vehicle form (MR13B). Although commonly referred to as ownership, the Certificate of registration isn’t legal title for the vehicle – it is simply a record of who is responsible for the vehicle.
Selling a motor vehicle If you are selling a motor vehicle:
Complete the bottom, tear-off portion of your Certificate of registration with the new owner's details and post it to the Transport Registry Centre, Private Bag, Palmerston North (no stamp required). If you've lost the Certificate of registration, you can still notify your part of the change of ownership process by completing a Notice by person selling/disposing of motor vehicle (form MR13A), available from NZTA agents. Give the remaining portion of the Certificate of registration to the buyer so they can notify their part of the change of ownership. Make sure you and the new owner complete change of ownership forms within seven days of the sale. If you don't, you could be liable for the new owner's speed camera tickets, licensing fees and any fines they may receive for not displaying a current WoF or a current licence. Ask them to show you one of the following documents as evidence they've changed the vehicle into their name: o a change of ownership transfer receipt o an email confirmation page (if they have completed their transaction online) o a receipted Notice of change of ownership of motor vehicle (form MR13B). If you sell your car through a registered motor vehicle trader they should notify the change of ownership for you, but it is wise to check that they have done this.
You can also complete this transaction online at nzta.govt.nz/online. Call the motor vehicle registration contact centre on 0800 108 809 if you have any questions about:
your ownership responsibilities
where to obtain any of the forms, or where to find an NZTA agent.
This service is available between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays).
Responsible driving Responsible driving means driving with the safety and convenience of all road users in mind. Following the information in this section will help you to become a safe and responsible road user.
Important driver responsibilities Operation of a vehicle A driver must not operate a vehicle in a condition or manner that could cause:
injury to any person or animal annoyance to any person damage to any property distraction to the driver.
Unsafe vehicle or load You must not drive:
an unsafe vehicle a vehicle with an unsafe load, which: o is not tied down o could fall from the vehicle o is dragging on the ground.
Dangerous riding You must not ride in (or on) a vehicle in a way that might result in injury. If you are the driver you must not let your passengers ride in (or on) the vehicle in an unsafe way.
Carrying people or packages Holding a package, person or animal in your lap or arms when driving is dangerous. Ideally, put packages in a secure place such as the boot. If this isn't possible, put them in a place inside the vehicle where they won't hurt anyone if the vehicle stops suddenly.
Children and pets
Children and pets can be noisy or need your help when you are driving. If you have to deal with the needs of children or pets, pull over to the side of the road and park your vehicle first.
Lighting A driver or passenger must not use any vehicle lighting equipment in a way that will dazzle, confuse or distract other road users.
Noisy and smoky vehicles You must not drive a vehicle that:
makes a lot of noise, inside or outside the vehicle, due to: o the way in which the vehicle is being driven o the condition of the vehicle o any other means (such as a car stereo) makes noise that is likely to cause annoyance to any person makes smoke for 10 seconds or more.
Make sure your vehicle's exhaust system and silencer are in good working order. This will prevent gases and excessive noise entering the car. Making the wheels of a motor vehicle lose traction and spin on the road surface may make unnecessary noise or smoke and could be a traffic offence.
Using the horn The horn should only be used as a reasonable traffic warning. It should not make an unnecessary or unreasonably loud, harsh or shrill noise.
Opening and closing doors You must not open or close the door of a motor vehicle if it is likely to:
cause a hazard to any road user (including pedestrians, cyclists or other users of a footpath), or hurt anyone.
Music Don't play music in your car so loudly that you can't hear:
the sounds your car is making emergency sirens the sound of warning bells or trains when you're coming up to a railway level crossing.
Uphill and downhill traffic On steep, narrow roads, it is easier for vehicles moving downhill to give way to vehicles moving uphill.
Funeral processions
If you are driving in a funeral procession, you should drive with your vehicle's headlights on dip. That way, other drivers will know you are part of the procession.
Animals on the road Farmers often use country roads to move stock between paddocks. If there are animals on the road:
slow down or pull over to the side of the road don't sound your horn or make a noise that could frighten the animals follow any advice the farmer may give you.
Broken glass and other debris on the road You are responsible for removing the following things if they fall or escape from your vehicle onto the road:
Any slippery substance. Any piercing or dangerous substance. Glass. Any other substance of any kind that, because of its size or nature, could be a danger to road users.
If the substance or glass can be removed quickly and safely, you must immediately remove it or ensure it is removed. If the substance or glass cannot be removed quickly and safely, and there is likelihood of harm being caused to the public or any person, you must warn the public or report the occurrence immediately to the nearest police station or to a member of the police. If you are physically incapacitated and unable to remove the substance or glass or warn the public or report the occurrence, the person removing the vehicle from the scene must do those things as required.
Firearms (guns) You must not carry a firearm in your vehicle unless you hold a firearm licence. You must never carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle. (This also means you must not carry ammunition in the chamber or attached magazine of the gun.)
Space-saver wheels Some cars have a space-saver wheel as the spare wheel. Space-saver wheels are much smaller than the vehicle's other wheels so they take up less storage room. Space-saver wheels are for emergency use only and are not designed to be used over long distances. If you get a flat tyre and replace a wheel with a space-saver wheel, you should only use it to get directly home or to a place where the flat tyre can be repaired or replaced.
The vehicle is likely to handle differently with a space-saver wheel. Drive carefully and don't drive faster than 80km/h. If the space-saver wheel has a sticker showing a lower speed, then that speed applies. Space-saver wheels must have a safety label that states that the tyre is for temporary use only, what the maximum safe speed is for the tyre and what the correct pressure is. Make sure you read and follow the label. Note: make sure the space-saver tyre is inflated to the correct pressure. This is much higher than normal tyre pressure.
Cellphones While you are driving, you cannot create, send, or read a text message on a cellphone or use a hand-held cellphone to make or receive a phone call. This includes accessing online services in any way. You can, however, use your cellphone to make, receive or terminate a telephone call while driving if the phone is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and you manipulate the phone infrequently and briefly. You can also use a cellphone while driving to make a 111 or *555 call if it is unsafe or impractical to pull over and stop in a safe place at the side of the road to make the call.
Driver distractions Anything that takes a driver's attention away from the road can be a potential hazard. You should avoid or minimise the following distractions when you are driving:
looking at things on the roadside looking at scenery talking on a hands-free cellphone talking to passengers noisy children pets eating food lighting a cigarette adjusting radio or climate controls daydreaming tiredness reading maps objects moving in the vehicle electronic gadgets reaching for items in the glovebox cleaning the inside of the windscreen.
Work time and logbook requirements If you are driving a taxi or if your vehicle weighs more than 3500kg (for example, a truck), you may be subject to restrictions on how long you can
drive and the amount of rest you must have. You may also need to keep a logbook of your work time. For more information phone the NZTA on 0800 822 422 or refer to The official New Zealand road code for heavy vehicle drivers.
Safety belts and child restraints Safety belts and child restraints protect people by holding them in their seats when there is a crash or when the vehicle stops suddenly. If you don’t wear a safety belt and you’re involved in a crash, you could be thrown out of your vehicle. Always remember to fasten your safety belt before you drive off. See About your vehicle for more information about the legal requirements for safety belts in your vehicle.
Responsibility As the driver you are responsible for making sure passengers under the age of 15 are using an approved child restraint or safety belt.
Children under five must be in an approved child restraint. Children aged between five and seven must use an approved child restraint or wear a safety belt. Children aged between eight and 14 must wear a safety belt.
The safety belt must be worn correctly and kept securely fastened while the vehicle is in motion on the road. Passengers 15 years and over are responsible for making sure that they wear their own safety belts correctly and that they keep them fastened while the vehicle is in motion. Bus drivers in vehicles with passenger safety belts are not responsible for ensuring passengers wear them except passengers under the age of 15 sitting in a front seat alongside the driver.
How to wear a safety belt Most safety belts are retractable. This means they stretch automatically to the correct length when you fasten them and lock only if the vehicle stops suddenly. If your vehicle has a non-retractable safety belt, you will need to adjust its length before you fasten it. There should be just enough room to slide the palm of your hand between the belt and your chest. Never put an adult and a child together in the same safety belt.
Special exemptions You don’t have to wear a safety belt if you:
hold a current doctor’s certificate that says you don’t have to wear a safety belt for medical reasons are driving and you’re unable to reach the controls (for example, brake, signals, dip switch) with a safety belt on are a taxi driver plying for hire (your passengers, however, must wear safety belts) are a driver or passenger who is getting in and out of the vehicle often to read meters, deliver goods, etc. In these situations you must not travel faster than 50km/h are reversing and it is difficult to see while wearing a safety belt.
Child restraints Under fives Children under five years old must be properly restrained in an approved child restraint. The only exception to this rule is when the children are travelling in a taxi that doesn’t have an approved child restraint. In this case, the children must sit in the back seat.
Five to seven year olds Children aged between five and seven years old must use a child restraint if available. If no child restraint is available, they must use a safety belt. If no safety belt is available, they must sit in the back seat. For more information about child restraints, visit Using child restraints safely on our website.
Crashes Unfortunately, crashes do happen on our roads. As a responsible driver, you need to know the signs that show you are coming up to the scene of a crash and what your responsibilities are if you're involved in a crash or if you come across a crash.
Crash warning signs At a crash site the police may use signs, flashing lights and flares to warn approaching drivers. When coming up to a crash site, slow down and drive carefully. The road may be blocked and there could be injured people lying on it.
Accident
The sign shown above is placed by police near a crash site. It means you must drive at 20km/h or less until you pass the crash site. Watch out for emergency workers and injured people.
Warning triangle
The triangle shown above is a warning triangle. It means there is a breakdown or crash ahead. Anyone can put a warning triangle on the side of the road to warn other road users.
Reporting a crash If you are involved in a crash while driving, and you are not badly injured, the first thing you must do is stop and check to see if anyone is hurt, and provide assistance. If someone is hurt, you must tell a police officer as soon as possible and no later than 24 hours after the crash. If no one is hurt, you must give your name, address and vehicle registration (and, if asked, the name and address of the owner of the vehicle you are driving, if it isn't your vehicle) as soon as possible but no later than 48 hours after the crash to:
the owner or driver of any other vehicle that has been damaged the owner of any property that has been damaged.
If you can't find these people, you must tell a police officer as soon as possible and no later than 60 hours after the crash. If your vehicle is insured, tell your insurance company as soon as possible after the crash.
Tips for dealing with crashes If you are first on the scene of a crash, your actions could help save the lives of the people involved in the crash and make it safer for other drivers coming upon the crash scene. Here are some things you can do to help make the crash scene safer:
Park your car in a safe spot, away from the crash area. Leave plenty of space for emergency vehicles to come and go, and for emergency workers to work in. Switch on your car's hazard warning lights. If possible, post other people or warning triangles on all approaches to the crash site to warn oncoming drivers. The people or triangles should be about 200 metres from the crash site to give approaching drivers time to slow down. If people are injured, call an ambulance as soon as possible. Following a crash, some airbags may not be deployed. If you need to enter a crashed vehicle, don't place yourself between any undeployed airbag and injured or trapped person. Undeployed airbags can deploy with force some minutes after a crash and could injure both the rescuer and injured/trapped person. If it is safe to do so, turn off the ignition of all vehicles involved in the crash. If any vehicle involved in the crash has a dangerous goods placard, follow the instructions below on crashes involvingdangerous goods.
If people have been injured in the crash, you should call an ambulance as soon as you can. Before the ambulance comes, there are some things you may be able to do to help them and some things you should be aware of, which are outlined in this section. Important Dial 111 for emergency services. Dial *555 to report traffic incidents.
Basic first aid Ideally, you should enrol in a recognised first aid course so you can learn techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation under proper supervision. This will make you more confident and more capable of using first aid if you have to.
Try not to move injured people If a victim has spinal injuries, moving them may only worsen their injuries. You should never move a crash victim unless it is absolutely necessary. The only instances where you should move someone before medical help arrives are when:
the person is trapped in a vehicle that is on fire or in danger of catching fire it is necessary to move them to: o give CPR o give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation o stop severe bleeding.
Stopping severe bleeding If the patient is bleeding badly, you should try to stop or reduce the bleeding.
Raise the part of the body that is bleeding. This will take some of the blood away from the wound. Apply pressure to the wound, preferably with thick, folded fabric, such as a towel or an item of clothing.
Crashes involving dangerous goods If you come across a crash involving a vehicle that is carrying dangerous goods, you will need to be extremely careful. Never make a rescue attempt unless you are sure you are not endangering yourself by coming into contact with dangerous substances. Most vehicles carrying dangerous goods display a placard that indicates the type of goods being carried. Some of the most common placards are shown below. You should familiarise yourself with these placards and what they mean.
Dangerous goods
Toxic substances
Explosives
Flammable liquid
Oxidising agent
Corrosive substances
Remember, if you're at a crash site and you're in any doubt about the meaning of a placard, keep your distance – especially if there's been a spillage. Poisonous fumes may be given off by a dangerous substance. Make a careful note of the colour and symbol on the placard and give this information to the emergency services when phoning to report a crash and when they arrive at the crash site. Keep bystanders well away from the crash scene and upwind of poisonous fumes.
Stepping over the line Traffic laws are made to protect and ensure the safety of all road users. This section describes the penalties that you can face if you commit driving offences.
Demerit points Demerit points are given for some traffic offences and for speeding infringements (except those recorded by a speed camera). If you get a total of 100 or more demerit points within any two-year period, you will be suspended from driving for three months. If you incur 50 or more demerit points, you will be sent a letter to warn you that your licence is in danger of being suspended. If you are disqualified from driving for less than six months by the court, you may have demerit points added to any previous demerit points on your record. If you are suspended or disqualified by the court for six months or more, any previously recorded demerit points will be cleared from your record. Demerit points will also be cancelled if you have not offended for two years. If you are suspended for excess demerit points, you will be served with a suspension notice. Your suspension is effective from when you are personally served with the suspension notice and you must surrender your driver licence to the person giving you the notice. Your driver licence card will be permanently cancelled as a result of the suspension. When your suspension has ended you will remain unlicensed. You are not entitled to drive until you apply at a NZTA licensing agent to have your licence reinstated and a new licence has been issued.
Some of the offences that incur demerit points are listed below. General description of offence
Demerit points
Demerit points for speed related offences
Exceeding fixed speed limit by not more than 10km/h
10
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 10km/h but not more than 20km/h
20
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20km/h but not more than 30km/h
35
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 30km/h but not more than 35km/h
40
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 35km/h
50
Using equipment in a motor vehicle that interferes with the operation of a speed measuring device
25
Possessing equipment in a motor vehicle that is designed to interfere with the operation of a speed measuring device
25
Exceeding the speed for stopping distance
20
Exceeding the speed for stopping distance on a road not marked in lanes
20
Demerit points for mobile phone related offences
Using a cellphone while driving
20
Demerit points for driver licence related offences
Driving a motor vehicle contrary to the GDLS conditions of your driver licence (excluding the requirement to display L plates)
35
Failing to display L plates as required
25
Driving a motor vehicle contrary to the non-GDLS conditions of your driver licence
25
Demerit points for vehicle related offences
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle by driving or using it on a road in contravention of section 242(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998
20
Operating an unlicensed motor vehicle by driving or using it on a road in contravention of section 242(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998
15
Operating a motor vehicle on road without plates affixed
20
Using trade plates when not eligible
20
Operating a motor vehicle displaying plates or licence not authorised for that motor vehicle
25
Operating a motor vehicle displaying an object or design likely to be mistaken for plates or licence authorised for that motor vehicle
25
Operating a motor vehicle with plates or licence that is wholly or partially obscured or not easily distinguishable
25
Operating a motor vehicle with plates or licence that is wholly or partially obscured or not easily distinguishable
20
Failing to operate a motor vehicle with an exhaust system that complies with relevant noise output standards
25
Operating a vehicle that creates excessive noise
25
Creating excessive noise within or on vehicle
25
Demerit points for alcohol and enforcement officer related offences
Failing or refusing to remain for an evidential breath test or blood test
50
Person younger than 20 driving or attempting to drive with excessive breath alcohol or blood alcohol concentration
50
Failing or refusing to wait for the result of a breath screening test or an evidential breath test
50
Failing to stop on request or signal of an enforcement officer, or on being followed by motor vehicle displaying flashing blue, or blue and red, lights or sounding a siren
35
Failing to remain stopped for an enforcement officer
35
Driving or attempting to drive when forbidden by an enforcement officer
35
Failing or refusing to accompany an enforcement officer when so required
50
Failing to produce zero alcohol licence
25
Holding an interlock licence or zero alcohol licence and contravening the zero breath or blood alcohol level
50
Demerit points for commercial driving related offences
Producing logbook with 1-5 omissions
10
Producing logbook with 6-10 omissions
20
Producing logbook with 11 or more omissions
30
Failing to produce logbook
35
Failing to produce approved alternative record to an enforcement officer on demand
35
Vehicle recovery service vehicles failing to complete and retain tow authorities
35
A driver or contractor working within an alternative fatigue management scheme failing to keep records
35
Taxi driver accepting hire in specified area without an in-vehicle security camera system that is operating
20
Taxi driver accepting hire in specified area with an in-vehicle security camera system that has an unobscured view of the interior
20
Demerit points for helmet related offences
Driving or riding all-terrain vehicle, motorcycle, or moped without a securely fastened approved helmet
25
Driving or riding all-terrain vehilce, motorcycle, or moped with a damaged safety helmet
25
Demerit points for pedestrian crossing and pedestrian zone related offences
Failing to give way to a rail vehicle approaching level crossing
35
Entering a pedestrian crossing when passage is blocked
35
Failing to give way to pedestrians on shared zone
35
Failing to comply with school patrol sign
20
Passing at a school crossing point or pedestrian crossing
20
Demerit points for rail related offences
Driver fails to give way to rail vehicle approaching level crossing
20
Driving etc, a cycle, vehicle, or animal across level crossing when there is a risk of collision with rail vehicle
20
Failing to remain stationary at Stop sign until level crossing clear
20
Fail to remain stationary at stop sign until level crossing clear
20
Entering a controlled area of a level crossing when red signal displayed
20
Entering a controlled area of a level crossing when barrier arm lowered
20
Demerit points for road rules related offences
Failing to drive as near as practicable to the left of the roadway
20
Failing to allow impeded traffic to pass
20
Unsafe passing
35
Impeding a vehicle when passing
35
Passing to the right of a no-passing line
35
Driving in an emergency stopping lane
10
Failing to comply with a handheld stop sign
20
Failing to stop at Stop sign
20
Failing to give way at Stop sign
20
Failing to give way at Give Way sign
20
Failing to give way at Give Way sign controlling a one-way section of road
25
Changing lanes or turning and failing to give way to vehicle not changing lanes or turning
20
Turning right and failing to give way to an approaching left-turning vehicle
20
At intersection failing to give way to vehicle approaching from right
20
Failing to give way to road user on footpath when entering/exiting driveway
20
Entering a roundabout and failing to give way
20
Driving too close to the vehicle in front
20
Driver permits riding dangerously
20
Using a motor vehicle carelessly or inconsiderately
35
Careless, reckless and dangerous driving The courts deal very seriously with drivers who drive carelessly, recklessly or dangerously. Severe penalties can be imposed if you are convicted of one of these offences. The penalties will be especially severe if you hurt or kill someone, whether or not you have taken alcohol or drugs. Penalties may include:
a maximum fine of $20,000 maximum imprisonment of 10 years disqualification of your driver licence.
Not wearing a safety belt You can be fined if you are aged 15 or over and you drive or ride in a vehicle without wearing a safety belt, or if you do not wear your safety belt correctly. If you are the driver, you can also be fined if any passengers under the age of 15 are not in an approved child restraint and/or safety belt, or if they are not wearing their safety belts correctly.
Mandatory suspension of driver licence Your licence will be suspended on the spot if:
a police officer (but not a speed camera) detects you exceeding a permanently posted speed limit by more than 40km/h or a temporary speed limit by more than 50km/h you commit one of the alcohol-related offences covered by mandatory suspension.
Your licence will be suspended for 28 days and you will also have to face courtimposed penalties for your offence. Note: there is no legal provision for the granting of a limited/work licence in these circumstances.
Impounding vehicles A police officer will impound your vehicle on the spot if you are caught:
driving while disqualified driving while your licence has been suspended driving without a licence, or with an expired licence, or before your licence has been reinstated and you have previously been stopped by a police officer and forbidden to drive.
Powers of arrest Some of the powers of arrest that a police officer has are listed below. As a driver or passenger, you could be arrested if you:
don't give your name or address to the officer, when requested tell an officer something that is not true about the identity of the owner of the vehicle don't stop when signalled by an officer assault an officer refuse or don't go with an officer for a blood or breath test don't wait for the result of a breath screening test or an evidential breath test don't give a blood sample when required by an officer or doctor don't give your car keys to an officer, when requested drive when told not to by an officer.
Tips on driving sustainably By following the tips in this section, you can use less fuel and reduce the amount of emissions (CO2 and other pollutants) your vehicle produces.
Drive to save fuel and reduce emissions Driving efficiently can reduce the amount of fuel your vehicle uses and the pollution it emits. You should:
drive smoothly, avoiding fast acceleration and sharp braking avoid over-revving by changing up gears reduce short trips (you use 20 percent more fuel when your engine is cold) don’t leave your vehicle idling for long periods avoid carrying unnecessary loads.
Keep your vehicle maintained Basic maintenance will cut down the fuel your vehicle uses as well as reducing pollutants produced. Make sure your vehicle is well-tuned and the tyres are correctly inflated. Roof racks and poorly placed spoilers increase air resistance and fuel consumption.
When buying a vehicle Try to choose a model that uses less fuel and emits fewer greenhouse gases. Visit www.rightcar.govt.nz for more information.
Consider other ways to travel Think about sharing rides/carpooling, taking public transport, walking or cycling.
About your vehicle
Car requirements Light trailer requirements
Car requirements To drive your car (or other light vehicle) safely and legally on the road it must have the right equipment (in good working order) and have a current warrant of fitness (WoF). This section explains what your vehicle must have.
Warrant of fitness (WoF) Privately operated cars, utes, vans and four-wheel drives must have a current WoF. Commercial vehicles and heavy vehicles must have a current certificate of fitness (CoF). A current WoF shows the vehicle has been inspected by an approved WoF inspector and was roadworthy at the time of the last WoF inspection. Important In addition to the warrant of fitness, the vehicle must display a current licence label, a road user charges (RUC) licence if required (such as if your car runs on diesel) and a number plate on the front and back that can be clearly seen. SeeAbout driver responsibility for more information about these requirements.
Warrant of fitness label
The WoF label must be attached to the inside of the windscreen, on the same side as the steering wheel, and must be clearly visible from outside the vehicle. The recommended position is in the top corner of the windscreen. The WoF inspector will give you a copy of the check sheet. This is a receipt of payment for the inspection and is not a warrant of fitness. If your vehicle failed its WoF inspection, the receipt gives you 28 days to have the vehicle fixed and brought back for re-inspection without any additional payment. During that time you are only allowed to drive the vehicle to get it repaired and reinspected.
How often do I need to get a WoF? If your vehicle was first registered (in New Zealand or overseas) less than six years ago, it requires a WoF inspection every 12 months. If your vehicle was first registered more than six years ago, it requires a WoF inspection every six months. Important You can be fined if you drive any vehicle that is not up to WoF standard on a road. A police officer can require you to stop for a roadside vehicle check at any time.
Features your car must have To meet the WoF standard, your car must be in good condition (for example, no rust around safety areas) and it must have the following equipment in good working order:
Features your car must have A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. O. P. Q. R. S. T.
A number plate light at the back. Two red reflectors at the back. Two red position lights at the back. One or two red high-mounted stop lights at the back. A working horn. A current WoF. A rear-view mirror that gives a clear view behind. A good sun visor. A windscreen that meets safety standards and is clean. One or more working windscreen wipers. A working speedometer. Two good headlights that can be dipped when another vehicle comes towards you. Two or four stop lights at the back. Flashing direction indicator lights at the back. A good silencer and exhaust system. Mudguards. Safe tyres – the tread depth must be at least 1.5 millimetres right around the tyre. If your car is fitted with winter tyres, these must be fitted to all four road wheels and have a tread depth of at least 4 millimetres right around the tyre. Working safety belts. Good footbrake and handbrake. Doors that open and close safely.
U. Safe steering. V. Flashing direction indicator lights at the front. W. Two white or amber position lights at the front.
Note: this checklist is a guide only. When inspecting your vehicle, the inspector will use the criteria in the Vehicle inspection requirements manual. For further information regarding vehicle requirements, go to In-service certification (WoF and CoF). Important Before making modifications, including the fitting of extra lights to your vehicle, check with an approved WoF inspector that the modifications are legal.
Carrying a load on your car
Do not overload your roof rack. Your load must not extend more than 3 metres forward of the front edge of the front seat or 4 metres behind the rear axle.
Illegal load
Your load must not extend more than 1.25 metres on either side from the centre of the vehicle.
Illegal load
Note: if a load extends more than 1 metre beyond the back of your vehicle, you must tie on a white flag, or a red, orange or yellow fluorescent flag. The flag must be at least 40 centimetres by 30 centimetres in size. The load must be tied on firmly and must not touch the ground.
Safety belts Approved safety belts must be fitted in all light passenger vehicles: cars, vans, utes and four-wheel drives. The safety belts must be in good condition. You should have safety belts checked immediately if:
the buckles are not working properly the belt is damaged or faded the belt starts to fray.
They may need replacing.
Legal requirements for safety belts have changed over the years and are different depending on the age of the vehicle. The type of belt has also changed from static belts to retractor belts. Three-point (lap and diagonal) belts must be fitted in the outer seating positions (including the driver's seat) in most cars, vans, utes and four-wheel drives. Two-point (lap) belts are legally allowed in centre seating positions, but three-point belts provide better safety. You must wear your safety belt when driving. Children must also be belted-in, using approved child restraints. See About driver responsibility for more information.
Light trailer requirements If you tow a light trailer (up to 3500kg when loaded), it must have a WoF. To meet the WoF standard your trailer must be in good condition (no rust around safety areas) and it must have the following equipment in good working order:
Features your light trailer must have A. B.
A safe and strong coupling and a safety chain or cable. If the trailer or its load is more than 2 metres wide, it must have two white lights at the front to show how wide it is. C. Safe tyres – the tread depth must be at least 1.5 millimetres right around the tyre. D. Mudguards. E. Two red reflectors at the back (one on each side).
Your trailer will also need the following features:
Features your light trailer must have A. B. C. D. E.
Two red lights at the back to show how wide the trailer is. Direction indicators at the back. Two red stop lights at the back, if the driver's signals can't be seen. A number plate light at the back. A current trailer WoF issued by a WoF inspector. This must be renewed:
every 12 months for the first six years, then every six months after. A licence label needs to be positioned close to the number plate.
o o
F.
Loading your trailer safely To ensure the stability of the vehicle and trailer combination when towing, the trailer should exert a downwards force on the towing vehicle's towbar equal to about 10 percent of the weight of the trailer plus its load. The load on the trailer must not:
extend more than 4 metres behind the rear axle
Illegal load
extend more than 1.25 metres on either side from the centre of the trailer.
Illegal load
If the load extends more than 1 metre behind the trailer, you must tie on a white flag, or a red, orange or yellow fluorescent flag. The flag must be at least 40 centimetres by 30 centimetres in size. The load must be tied on firmly and must not touch the ground. See Safe towing guidelines for more information.
About other road users Sharing the road It isn't only cars and other motor vehicles that use our roads; there are many other kinds of road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders. This section gives you information about other road users and how to share the road with them.
Sharing Sharing Sharing Sharing Sharing Sharing Sharing
the the the the the the the
road road road road road road road
with with with with with with with
pedestrians trucks and buses tractors overdimension vehicles motorcyclists cyclists horse riders
Information for other road users
Information Information Information Information Information
for for for for for
pedestrians cyclists horse riders moped riders riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational devices
Sharing the road with pedestrians On average, 36 pedestrians are killed and 1000 pedestrians are injured on New Zealand roads every year. Many of these deaths and injuries could be prevented if drivers took more care when using our roads. Please look out for pedestrians whenever you're behind the wheel.
Pedestrian safety for drivers
Always be ready to stop near schools, bus stops and pedestrian crossings. Be careful when driving past parked vehicles. Pedestrians may walk out without warning. You must slow down to 20km/h when passing or coming towards a school bus that has stopped to let children on or off, no matter which side of the road you are on. Watch out for elderly people or people with disabilities. Take special care near roadside stalls and parked vendors. Pedestrians visiting these may forget to watch for traffic when crossing the road.
Pedestrian crossings A pedestrian crossing is an area of road that has white stripes marked across it. It is used by pedestrians and people using mobility devices (such as motorised wheelchairs and similar devices) and wheeled recreational vehicles (such as skateboards and foot-propelled scooters).
Some crossings have raised islands in the middle, creating a ‘refuge' where pedestrians can stop. These are helpful for pedestrians crossing wide, two-way roads or multi-laned roads, because they allow them to walk across one direction of traffic at a time. As you drive towards a pedestrian crossing, you will see pedestrian crossing signs before the crossing and black and white poles at the crossing. The poles are mounted with fluorescent orange disks, or round yellow lights that flash at night. White diamonds are generally painted on the road before the crossing, and a white limit line shows you where to stop. When coming up to pedestrian crossings:
slow down and be ready to stop for any pedestrians stepping onto, or on, the crossing – this also includes people obviously waiting to use the crossing if there is no raised traffic island in the middle of the crossing, stop and give way to pedestrians on any part of the crossing if there is a raised traffic island in the middle of the crossing, stop and give way to pedestrians on your half of the road wait until the pedestrian has crossed in front of you and is clear of your vehicle before you proceed - see give way rules.
Pedestrian crossing
Pedestrian crossing with raised island
If you find yourself in a queue of traffic near a pedestrian crossing, don't move onto the crossing if there isn't enough room for your vehicle on the other side of the crossing. Important Never overtake a vehicle that is slowing down for a pedestrian crossing or has stopped to let someone cross.
Courtesy crossings Courtesy crossings are usually made of bricks or paving and are often raised above the level of the road. Although not official pedestrian crossings, they do provide a place for pedestrians to cross. Drivers should be courteous to pedestrians using a courtesy crossing.
Courtesy crossing
Shared zone This is a road that has been designed to slow traffic and give priority to pedestrians. Drivers give way to pedestrians who, in turn, should not impede traffic.
School crossings School crossings, also known as kea crossings, provide a safe place for children to cross the road. They generally only operate before and after school. When school crossings are operating, a fluorescent orange Children sign will be displayed, along with a School Patrol Stop sign, which swings out into the road. When the School Patrol Stop sign is out, vehicles coming from both directions must stop and stay stopped until all signs have been pulled in.
School Patrol Stop
What children would like drivers to know
Children are not little adults, so don't expect them to act as adults do. Children, especially those under the age of nine, may not have the skills and abilities needed to be safe in traffic. Be very careful when driving near them. Young children have narrow vision. This means they may not see vehicles as easily as adults do. Children have trouble judging the speed of moving vehicles. They may let a slow vehicle pass and try to cross in front of a fast one. Children often don't understand that it takes time for a vehicle to stop. Children may have difficulty working out where sounds are coming from. Because children are small, they often can't see over bushes and parked vehicles. This also means they can't be seen easily by drivers. Children tend to think about one thing at a time and ignore other things happening around them. Because children are always on the move, they may have trouble stopping at a kerb and could dart out into traffic. Children can freeze when they find themselves in danger, instead of taking quick action as an adult might.
Keep a lookout for children at all times. Take special care when driving during 8–9am and 3–4pm, when children are travelling to and from school.
Blind and vision-impaired pedestrians People who are blind or vision-impaired often use aids such as a white cane or a guide dog. When drivers see people with these aids trying to cross the road, they should take extra care and let them cross in their own time.
When leaving and entering driveways When you are entering or leaving a driveway that crosses a footpath, you must give way to people using the footpath.
Sharing the road with trucks and buses Following trucks and buses
Drivers of buses and trucks often have large blind spots behind and at the side of their vehicle, so it is a good idea to position your vehicle far enough back so it can be seen in their side mirrors. This will let the truck or bus driver know you are there. Remember the two-second rule; following too closely will limit your visibility, give you less time to stop and may put you in the truck or bus driver's blind spots. In wet weather, increase your following distance to four seconds. This will keep you away from any water spraying from the wheels of the bus or truck that could reduce your visibility, and will also give you more time to stop.
Truck drivers' blind spots
Important If you can't see the truck or bus driver in their side mirror, they can't see you.
Overtaking trucks and buses Because it takes several seconds longer to pass a truck or bus than it does to pass a car, it's important to make sure you have plenty of clear road ahead to safely pass without going over the speed limit. See Passing for more information.
Oncoming trucks and buses When driving past an oncoming truck or bus (one travelling in the opposite direction), drivers should keep firm control of the steering wheel to counter the effect of any air turbulence. Remember, trucks and other large vehicles take up more room on the road when travelling around bends and at intersections, and may not always stay entirely in their own lane.
Sharing the road with tractors You will sometimes see tractors and other farm or construction machinery on New Zealand roads. Because they are large and usually travel slower than other vehicles, you need to be especially careful when driving near them.
Begin to slow down as soon as you see a tractor ahead of you and watch out for any warning beacons. Be patient while driving behind tractors - a few minutes of travelling at a slow speed is better than risking a crash. Be extremely careful when passing and only pass when it is safe and legal to do so (see Passing for more information). Remember that tractors often have wide or long loads, which can make passing more difficult - see Sharing the road with overdimension vehicles for more information. Be especially careful around tractors that have just stopped, as they may actually be about to turn.
Sharing the road with overdimension vehicles You will sometimes see overdimension vehicles, such as vehicles carrying buildings, on the road. Because of their size, and because they travel slower than other vehicles, you need to be especially careful when driving near them.
You will usually have advance warning of extremely large vehicles, as they have pilot vehicles travelling with them to warn you (see Vehicle-mounted signs for more information). Oversize vehicles will be equipped with hazard panels, beacons and flags. Slow down and be prepared to do what the pilot vehicle instructs you to do.
Be patient – a few minutes of travelling at a slow speed is better than risking a crash. Be extremely careful when passing and only pass when it is safe and legal to do so (see Passing for more information). Remember that wide or long loads can make passing more difficult.
Sharing the road with motorcyclists Motorcyclists are highly mobile but less visible and therefore more vulnerable. It is important to remember to:
check your mirrors and blind spots before turning look behind you before opening your door or changing lanes be aware that most motorcycle indicators don't automatically turn off like most other vehicles' - don't be fooled by an indicator that stays on acknowledge motorcycles always need a whole lane. At any time a motorcyclist may suddenly swerve or slow down to avoid road hazards.
Sharing the road with cyclists Cyclists can be quite vulnerable on the road as they are less visible and less well protected than other road users. For these reasons, be alert for cyclists on the road and drive carefully when near them.
Safe driving around cyclists
Hazards like parked cars, potholes, glass, litter, strong wind and opening car doors may cause cyclists to veer off-line and move into your path. Because of this, give cyclists plenty of room when passing them. Ideally, allow at least 1.5 metres between you and the cyclist. Wait for a clear space before passing a cyclist on a narrow road. At intersections, apply the same rules to cyclists that you would to any other vehicle on the road. Take care to indicate turns. If you are crossing a cycle lane, give way to cyclists before you cross. Take extra care around young cyclists. You must not drive in or cross a cycle lane except for a maximum of 50 metres when entering or leaving side roads, driveways or parking spaces.
Common causes of cycle collisions Take extra care when you are carrying out the following actions.
Moving through or turning at intersections Cyclists can be hard to see on the road. Always check carefully for cyclists before turning at, or moving through, an intersection. If you are following a cyclist and want to turn left, wait until the cyclist has passed the intersection. At busy intersections cyclists may choose to turn right using a hook turn. This means they will go straight ahead in the left lane and stop on the left side of the road to wait for a gap in the traffic or for the traffic signals to change.
Opening a vehicle door You can injure a cyclist if you open your door into their path. Always check carefully for cyclists before you open your door.Using your left hand to open the door will turn your shoulders and increase your chances of seeing an approaching cyclist.
Reversing or moving out of driveways or parking spaces Always check the road carefully for cyclists before reversing or moving out of a driveway or parking space.
Passing groups of cyclists Remember, don't drive too close to cyclists. Allow them plenty of room.
What cyclists would like drivers to know
Cycles are small and can be difficult to see, especially at night. Don't just look for car-sized vehicles. Cyclists can feel threatened by inconsiderate driving. Cyclists have a right to space on the road and need extra room at intersections and roundabouts. Cyclists may ride away from the kerb or occupy a lane – not because they want to annoy drivers, but to: o avoid drains, potholes or roadside rubbish o be seen as they come up to intersections with side roads o discourage drivers from squeezing past where it's too narrow. Cyclists turning right are exposed. They need extra consideration from drivers, especially on multi-laned roads with fast-moving traffic. Cyclists can be forced into faster traffic by vehicles that are parked where they shouldn't be: o in cycle lanes o on broken yellow lines o near intersections. Cyclists are dazzled by headlights on full beam, just like other road users – remember to dip your lights for cyclists as well as other motor vehicles. Cyclists can travel quickly, capable of speeds of 40km/h or more. Cyclists have a right to use the roads and to travel safely and enjoyably. Please understand and respect their needs.
Sharing the road with horse riders Please show courtesy when sharing the road with horse traffic. Horses can take fright easily, so adjust your driving as soon as you see horses on the road ahead of you.
Safe driving near horses
Slow down and pass carefully, giving the horse and rider plenty of room. Don't sound your horn, rev your engine or pass at speed, as this could frighten the horse. If the horse and rider are on a bridge or narrow road, be very careful – slow down or stop. If the horse appears frightened, stop. At night, dip your headlights when approaching a horse. Two vehicles should avoid passing near a horse.
Important Be careful around horse traffic. If you aren't, you could be charged with careless or dangerous driving.
Information for pedestrians As a pedestrian, it's important that you follow the road rules and guidelines shown below. They will help ensure your safety when you're walking near roads or crossing the road.
General pedestrian guidelines
Footpaths provide a safe place for you to walk. Where a footpath is provided, use it. Where there is no footpath: o walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic (except on curves, where it is best to walk on the outside edge of the curve) o if possible, walk off the road, or as close as possible to the edge of the road o at night, wear light-coloured or reflective clothing, or carry a torch to help you be seen. When using a shared path you must be careful and considerate. A shared path may be a cycle path, a footpath, or some other kind of path used by pedestrians, cyclists, riders of mobility devices and riders of wheeled recreational vehicles at the same time. There will be a sign telling you it is a shared path. Be careful when crossing driveways, particularly when your visibility is restricted by buildings or fences. Remember, if a driver is coming out of a driveway, their vision will be restricted and they may not see you. Cross the road only when it is safe to do so. Always check all nearby roads for vehicles before you cross and quickly walk straight across the road. Remember, it takes time for a vehicle to stop. Be sensible and wait for a gap in the traffic before crossing the road. When crossing the road at an intersection, remember to check behind and in front for turning vehicles. When crossing the road at night, cross near a street light if you can. If you need to cross the road when you get off a bus, wait until the bus has moved away before checking for moving vehicles. If you have to cross the road between parked vehicles, move out as far as the headlight of a parked car nearest the traffic, then check for moving vehicles and wait for a gap before crossing the road. Young children should hold an older person's hand.
Pedestrian crossings If you are within 20 metres of a pedestrian crossing, footbridge, underpass or traffic signals, you must use it to cross the road. Don't dawdle on a pedestrian crossing. Don't step out suddenly onto a pedestrian crossing if any vehicles are so close to the crossing that they cannot stop.
Courtesy crossings Courtesy crossings are not official pedestrian crossings. They provide a place where drivers can stop safely to allow pedestrians to cross. However, drivers are not obliged to stop at courtesy crossings, so use them with care.
Courtesy crossing
Pedestrian traffic signals At many intersections and busy roads, there are special traffic signals for pedestrians. When a non-flashing red figure is displayed, you must not cross the road. Some pedestrian traffic signals show how much time you have to finish crossing.
Don't cross
When a green figure is displayed, pedestrians may cross the road. A buzzer may also sound to let you know that you can cross.
Walk quickly across
When a flashing red figure is displayed, you must not start crossing the road, but you can finish crossing if you have already started.
Don't start crossing, but you may finish crossing
Joggers
It can be hard for drivers to see you when you are running. Wear bright clothes and reflective belts or bands. Obey the road rules for pedestrians. Be very careful at intersections.
Tips for parents
Teach your children to be safe on the roads and footpaths. Show them where it is safe to walk and how to cross the road safely. Show your children the safest way to school, the shops, the playground or other places they go regularly. If your children are five years old or under, walk with them to school or preschool.
Remember to watch for children when reversing into or out of driveways and garages.
Information for cyclists As a cyclist, it is important that you follow the road rules and guidelines. They will increase your safety when you are cycling on the road.
Safety rules for cyclists
Cyclists must wear an approved safety helmet. Always fasten it securely, by following the manufacturer's instructions. It's a good idea to wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing when cycling. That way you'll be easier to see. Don't ride your bicycle on a footpath unless you are delivering newspapers, mail or leaflets, or there is a sign indicating it is a shared pedestrian and cycle path. At intersections, you must: o follow the rules for motor vehicles, or o get off your cycle and walk across, or o do a hook turn. You can only ride alongside another cyclist or moped. You must not ride alongside a car, truck or other motor vehicle. Always ride in single file if passing another vehicle. Your cycle must not be towed by another vehicle. Your cycle can only tow a trailer (one designed to be towed by a cycle) and must not be fitted with a sidecar. You must not carry a pillion passenger on your cycle unless you have a pillion seat and footrest. If you are carrying a child, the pillion seat must protect the child's legs from the wheels. You must not leave a cycle blocking a footpath. Where there is an adequate cycle path or cycle lane, cyclists should use it. You must ride with lights on when it is dark (from 30 minutes after sunset on one day until 30 minutes before sunrise on the next day) and at any other time when you can’t clearly see a person or vehicle 100 metres away. You must keep your cycle in good working condition.
Hand signals for cyclists You must give a hand signal at least three seconds before stopping or turning. You are not breaking this rule if you are turning right at a roundabout and it is impractical to keep signalling. Always check to make sure your hand signals have been seen and understood. Look well behind you to make sure there is room for you to turn, pull out or pass safely.
The hand signal shown below means you want to turn left.
Left-turn hand signal
The hand signal shown below means you are stopping or slowing down.
Stop hand signal
The hand signal shown below means you:
want to turn right are going to pass a vehicle or some other object on the road are pulling out from the kerb.
Right-turn hand signal
Hook turns A hook turn is a different way for cyclists to turn right at an intersection. Hook turns can be done at any intersection except at intersections with signs banning them. At some intersections there may be special marked areas to stop in at the halfway turning point. It should be noted though that hook turns can be done at intersections with or without the marked stopping area.
How to do a hook turn 1. 2. 3. 4.
Keep in the cycle lane, the left lane or the left-most lane that goes straight ahead. Cycle across the intersection when the light, for going straight ahead, turns green. Stop in the marked area of road just before the footpath. If there is not a marked place stop near the footpath but clear of traffic going straight ahead, and angle your cycle so it's pointing to the right. Wait until the lights on the other side of the road turn green and then cycle across the intersection keeping left.
Hook turn
What drivers would like cyclists to know
Drivers expect cyclists to obey the road rules. Drivers usually travel faster than cyclists and therefore have less time to react to hazards. Remember this when you're on the road. Sometimes cyclists' behaviour can unsettle drivers, such as when cyclists appear hesitant or change direction suddenly. Drivers can feel delayed by cyclists. Licensed drivers and cyclists both have a right to use our roads, and both share a responsibility to understand and respect each other's needs.
Features your cycle must have
Features your cycle must have
A. A red or yellow reflector at the back. B. Good brakes on the front and back wheels (or, if the bike was made on or before 1 January 1988, a good brake on the back wheel).
When riding at night, cycles must have the following:
C. A steady or flashing rear-facing red light that can be seen at night from a distance of 100 metres. D. One or two white or yellow headlights that can be seen at night from a distance of 100 metres (one of these lights may flash). E. Yellow pedal reflectors, or the rider must be wearing reflective material.
Important Any load you carry on your cycle must be tied on firmly and must not touch the ground.
Information for horse riders As a horse rider, it's important that you follow the road rules shown below. They will help ensure your safety when you are riding on the road.
Safety rules for horse riders
Always wear a safety hat while riding. Otherwise, a fall from your horse could result in a head injury. Ride your horse on the left-hand side of the road and as far to the left as possible. Keep your horse on the side of the road whenever you can, but don't ride on footpaths, lawns or gardens. Don't ride more than two abreast. Don't ride on the right of any moving vehicle. If you're leading another animal while riding, always keep it on your left, away from the traffic. If you're riding a horse or leading animals at night, wear reflective clothing and carry a torch.
Horse-drawn vehicles
At night, vehicles drawn by horses must have a white light on the front right of the vehicle or load and have a red light shining to the rear. They must not have a red light on the front at night.
Information for moped riders A moped is a two-wheeled motor vehicle with an engine capacity of no more than 50cc or which has an alternative power source (for example, electricity).
Its maximum speed capability is no more than 50km/h. This definition also includes three-wheeled vehicles registered as mopeds before 10 May 2011. You are licensed to ride a moped if you have either a motorcycle (Class 6) licence or a car (Class 1) licence. When riding a moped on a Class 1 or Class 6 learner licence, you must display an L plate. If you’re on a learner or restricted licence, you must not ride the moped between 10pm and 5am.
Safety rules for moped riders
A moped is a motor vehicle. Therefore, you must not ride it on the footpath or a cycle path. The exception is where a road controlling authority has authorised the use of a footpath by a moped or motorcycle rider for the purpose of delivering newspapers, mail or other printed material to letterboxes. You must wear an approved motorcycle safety helmet when riding a moped. At intersections, you must: o follow the rules for motor vehicles, or o get off your moped and walk across. You may ride beside another moped or cyclist, but you must not ride beside other vehicles. Pass other vehicles in single file. A moped must not be towed by any other vehicle. A moped may tow a trailer, but must not be fitted with a sidecar. You must not carry a pillion passenger on a moped, unless you have a pillion seat and footrests. If you are carrying a child, the pillion seat must protect the child’s legs from the wheels. You must not park a moped on the footpath. You must turn on your moped’s headlight during the hours of darkness (from 30 minutes after sunset on one day until 30 minutes before sunrise on the next day) and at any other time when you can’t clearly see a person or vehicle 100 metres away. You must also turn on either your moped's headlight or its daytime running lights during daylight hours if your moped was manufactured on or after 1 January 1980.
Features your moped must have Your moped must have:
a rear red light that can be seen from 100 metres away a headlight powerful enough to see clearly anything 30 metres in front of you a horn good tyres, with a clear tread pattern a good exhaust system that isn't excessively noisy safe steering mudguards good brakes at the front and back one or two red rear stop lights (if first registered in New Zealand after 1 January 1991) a red rear reflector.
Important Any load you carry on your moped must be tied on firmly and must not touch the ground.
Information for riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational devices Mobility devices include motorised wheelchairs and similar devices. Wheeled recreational vehicles include skateboards and foot-propelled scooters. A mobility device is a vehicle that:
is designed and constructed (not merely adapted) for use by people who require mobility assistance due to a physical or neurological impairment, and is powered solely by a motor that has a maximum power output not exceeding 1500W, or is a vehicle that the NZTA has declared under section 168A(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998 to be a mobility device.
A wheeled recreational device:
is a vehicle that is a wheeled conveyance (other than a cycle that has a wheel diameter exceeding 355mm) and that is propelled by human power or gravity, and includes a conveyance to which are attached one or more propulsion motors that have a combined maximum power output not exceeding 300W.
Safety rules for riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational vehicles.
When riding on any path you must be careful and considerate of others using the path. Your speed must not constitute a hazard for others using the path. When using footpaths you have the same obligations as pedestrians at traffic signals. A mobility device should be used on the footpath where it is possible to do so. If you have to ride on the road you should keep as near as practicable to the edge. When you are riding a wheeled recreational vehicle on a footpath you must give way to pedestrians and drivers of mobility devices.
