Road safety
Getting around New Zealand by road is a great way to see our beautiful country and visit other towns. But driving in New Zealand can be different to driving in other countries so it’s important you understand the rules and how to drive safely, before you start your trip.
New Zealand’s roads – some key differences
Always drive on the left side of the road (in most countries you drive on the right side).
Roads are often winding, narrower and sometimes steeper than you are used to.
Nearly all roads have just two lanes, one for each direction, and there are very few motorways.
Not all railway crossings have active warnings, like flashing lights and barrier arms, so check both ways before crossing.
Some roads are unsealed and have loose gravel.
Tip: You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have a current and valid overseas licence. Check here(external link that opens in a new tab) for further information.
Being safe on the roads
Here are some rules to remember on New Zealand roads:
Drive on the left side of the road and remember to stay left when you come to an intersection, roundabout, or pull out on to a road.
Seatbelts are compulsory, for everyone in the vehicle, and they save lives. Regardless of how fast you’re travelling, wearing your seatbelt properly will reduce your risk of a serious injury.
Watch your speed. Stay on or below the speed limits. The maximum speed on the open road is 100km/h, but often the speed limit is less than this. Speed limits change often.
Alcohol(external link that opens in a new tab) and drugs, including some drugs given to you by a doctor, seriously affect your driving. Alcohol and/or drugs can cause crashes. If you are in any doubt at all about being safe or legal to drive after drinking or taking drugs, don’t drive – it’s not worth it.
Driving while using a hand-held phone in New Zealand is illegal. You can use your phone if it’s on a hands-free device/mounting, but this still carries risk. If you’re using it for navigation or music, set it up before you drive.
Tip: Check out Important New Zealand Road Rules(external link that opens in a new tab) for more information, and if you think you have what it takes to drive in New Zealand check out this interactive video(external link that opens in a new tab) and test your skills!
Tips to help you stay safe
When you plan your journey, include breaks, and share the driving if you can. If you’re feeling tired, stop in a safe place and take a short nap.
Avoid anything that needs your attention such as mobile phones, music, food and drink, other passengers or scenery.
There are lots of cyclists on our roads so you should share the road safely with them. Give cyclists at least 1.5 metres between you and them when passing, wait for a clear space before passing, and apply the same rules to cyclists as you would to another vehicle at intersections.
Reduce your speed if it’s raining, icy or snowing, windy, near roadworks, or in heavy traffic.
Most roads have just two lanes so overtaking can be dangerous. Overtake only on designated passing lanes and when safe to do so.
If you don’t feel confident driving there are lots of other options, including public buses, planes, trains, ferries and bus tours.
"So, my advice is: take it slow and schedule some extra time to safely go from point A to B."
Nathan Rees — international student
Cyclists
You must always wear a helmet and follow all road rules.
Your bike must have working brakes and reflectors.
It is a good idea to wear reflective clothing and you must use your bike lights when cycling at night.
Where possible, use cycle lanes.
You can find more important help and advice here(external link that opens in a new tab).
Trips can take longer than you expect due to road works, weather conditions, winding roads or simply because you stop to enjoy the scenery. Plan(external link that opens in a new tab) your journey and allow plenty of time to get to your destination.
Check out the pages below for more useful information.
Related pages
Staying safe
New Zealand is known as a relatively safe country to live and travel in. However, when you're here it's important to be as careful as you would be at home.
Travelling within New Zealand
Getting to New Zealand might take you a long time in a plane, but when you're here it's easy to get around with many transportation options. Find out the easiest ways for getting around New Zealand when studying here.
Cities and regions
Learn more about New Zealand and the country you're studying with. From mountain peaks that touch the sky to sprawling cities along the coast, there's always something new to see or do!
Alcohol laws and drinking responsibly
To be safe and have a great experience, you must follow the alcohol laws while you’re studying here. Find out what they are and how to drink alcohol responsibly.