Rest Before Driving

If you are arriving on a long-haul flight, consider staying overnight in that destination. That will ensure you are fresh and ready for the drive ahead.

Take Regular Breaks

It’s easy to underestimate New Zealand driving times. Take plenty of breaks and give yourself additional travel time to rest, eat, and stretch your legs. Plan to drive for only 1 - 2 hours at a time to break up your journey.

Keep Left

Always drive on the left side of the road. If you drive on the right side of the road in your own country, please remember to keep left when pulling out onto the road – it’s easy to forget where you are!

Giving Way at Intersections

In general, if you’re turning, give way to all vehicles that are not turning. Always use your indicator when turning.

No Left Turn on Red

In New Zealand you may not turn left at an intersection when the traffic signals are red.

Hand-held Mobile Phones

Drivers must not use a hand-held mobile phone when driving, unless the device is completely hands-free or mounted securely to the vehicle – and touched infrequently and briefly. Writing, reading or sending text messages on a mobile phone while driving is also illegal.