Driving In New Zealand

In New Zealand, cars travel on the left hand side of the road. Roads are well maintained and, outside cities, are uncrowded. Apart from around the main centres there are no multilane motorways, and main highways are often twisting and undulating. Beware also unsealed roads in many remote locations, which require special care.


Excessive speed poses a considerable danger on New Zealand roads, and speed cameras are a common sight when travelling around the country. Speed limits are 100kph on the open road and 50kph in urban areas, with several limits in between for other areas. Speed limits are strictly enforced, although the police generally will only ticket or stop you if you are driving more than 10% over the stated speed limit. Please note that when driving near schools that you may be ticketed if you drive over 55km per hour.

New Zealand is also very firm with its drink driving laws. The legal blood alcohol level is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100millilitres of blood for adults. If you are aged below 20 then the legal blood alcohol level drops to just 30 milligrams of alcohol per 100millilitres of blood.

The long distances between places of interest in New Zealand can mean many hours behind the wheel. All drivers are advised to leave plenty of time whilst planning their journey, and to make regular stops along the way to avoid fatigue.

Overseas visitors should be especially aware of New Zealand’s unique give way rules; when turning left at a junction, or on a give way, you must give way to all traffic on your right. If hiring a car, ask the rental company for a booklet explaining New Zealand road rules, or check out the web link below.

www.ltsa.govt.nz/roadcode