Hiking the Hooker Valley Track
Discover the stunning beauty of the Hooker Valley Track in New Zealand’s Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, an unforgettable hiking experience.
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A fantastic way to see New Zealand is to hire a car to explore its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque routes. However, several key points must be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. So here are tips for driving in New Zealand.
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Before you start your journey in New Zealand, you must understand the licensing requirements. If you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and it is in English, you can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months without needing an international driver’s license. However, if your license is in a language other than English, you must carry an official translation or obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
The IDP is easy to get and can be acquired from motoring clubs in your home country before you travel.
Correct documentation is crucial because driving without a valid license can result in fines and penalties. Additionally, make sure your driver’s license is current and not expired.
While you must be at least 18 years old to rent a car in New Zealand, some rental companies have their own minimum age requirements. Always check with the rental company beforehand to ensure you meet all their criteria.
In New Zealand, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. For those of us from the 76 countries and territories (or 34% of the world’s population) who drive on the left-hand side of the road, this will not be an issue for you. However, for those of you from the 163 countries and territories (or 66% of the world’s population) who drive on the right-hand side of the road, it does take extra concentration for the first few days of driving.
When you pick up your rental car, take some time to familiarise yourself with the controls. Remember that the driver’s seat is on the right side of the vehicle, and many controls, like turn signals and wipers, may be opposite to what you are used to.
At intersections and roundabouts, always look right first and give way to traffic coming from your right. This can be tricky if you’re used to looking left, so staying focused and cautious is important. Roundabouts are common in New Zealand, and you must give way to vehicles already on the roundabout.
Driving on the left can feel unnatural at first, but after a bit of practice, it will become more comfortable.
New Zealand’s terrain is diverse, and many roads, particularly in rural and mountainous areas, are winding and narrow. These roads can be challenging to navigate, especially for drivers unfamiliar with such conditions.
Winding roads require a different driving approach. You’ll need to reduce your speed significantly, especially around sharp bends and blind corners. This is not only for your safety but also for the safety of other road users. The winding nature of these roads means that travel times can be much longer than your GPS or Google Maps suggest. Plan your trips with extra time to account for slower driving speeds.
It’s also crucial to stay alert and focused. The scenery in New Zealand is beautiful but can also be distracting. Keep your eyes on the road and pull over at safe points to enjoy the views. Pay attention to road signs indicating curves and recommended speeds, as they are there to help you navigate safely.
Driving on winding roads can be tiring, so take regular breaks. There are often rest areas and scenic lookout points where you can stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy the stunning views.
One-lane bridges are common in New Zealand, especially in rural areas. These bridges can be intimidating if you’re not used to them, but they are straightforward once you understand the rules.
When approaching a one-lane bridge, you’ll see a sign indicating which side has the right of way. If your side has a large white arrow pointing forward and a smaller red arrow pointing backward, you have the right of way. If it’s the opposite, you must yield to oncoming traffic. Always slow down as you approach, and be prepared to stop if necessary.
It’s also important to be courteous and patient. If another vehicle is already on the bridge, wait until they have crossed before you proceed.
Driving over these bridges can be a unique and interesting part of your New Zealand road trip. Just take it slow, follow the signs, and be considerate of other drivers.
New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. Being prepared for various weather scenarios is crucial for safe driving.
Always monitor weather reports and road conditions, and be prepared to adjust your travel plans if necessary. Safety should always be your priority.
Speed limits in New Zealand are strictly enforced, and it’s essential to adhere to them for your safety and the safety of others. In urban areas, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h unless otherwise posted. In rural areas and on open roads, the limit is typically 100 km/h.
Speed cameras and police patrols are common, so staying within the speed limits is crucial. Fines for speeding can be hefty.
In addition to the general speed limits, you’ll often see recommended speed signs for curves and other road conditions. These yellow signs suggest a safe speed for navigating bends and other potential hazards. While these are not mandatory limits, it’s wise to follow them to ensure your safety.
When driving in residential areas, be extra cautious and watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and children. In school zones, the speed limit is reduced, often to 40 km/h, during school hours. Always slow down and be prepared to stop in these areas.
New Zealand has specific road rules designed to keep everyone safe. Here are some key rules to remember:
Following these road rules will help you avoid fines and keep you and other road users safe. For more details head to the New Zealand Transport Agency.
In New Zealand, driving etiquette includes being considerate of other road users. One key aspect of this is to allow faster traffic to pass if you are driving slower than the speed limit or if traffic is building up behind you.
On narrow and winding roads, it’s common courtesy to pull over at a safe spot to let other vehicles pass. This helps to prevent frustration and keeps traffic flowing smoothly. Look for areas where you can safely pull off the road, such as lookouts or wider shoulder sections.
Another important part of driving etiquette is using indicators to show your intentions. Signal well in advance when turning or changing lanes to give other drivers plenty of notice. Be patient with other road users, especially in busy or congested areas, and avoid aggressive driving.
For more travel tips and guides about New Zealand, head over to our New Zealand Travel page.
Overtaking in New Zealand requires caution due to the often narrow and winding roads. Only overtake when you have a clear view of the road ahead, and it is safe to do so.
Before you overtake, check your mirrors and blind spots to ensure no vehicles are coming from behind. Signal your intention and move out smoothly. Be mindful of road signs, as some areas have no-passing zones marked by solid yellow lines. These lines indicate that overtaking is unsafe due to limited visibility or other hazards.
On many rural roads, overtaking lanes are provided at intervals. Use these lanes to pass slower vehicles safely. If you’re being overtaken, maintain a steady speed and move slightly to the left to give the passing vehicle more room.
Avoid overtaking on curves, hills, or near intersections. Patience is key; waiting for a safe opportunity is better than taking unnecessary risks.
Roadworks are common on New Zealand roads, especially during summer when maintenance is often carried out. These works can cause delays and require you to adjust your driving.
When approaching roadworks, slow down and obey all signs and signals. Reduced speed limits are usually in place, and failing to adhere to these can result in fines. Be patient and prepared for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
Workers are often present on these sites, and their safety is paramount. Follow any instructions given by traffic controllers, and be prepared to stop if signalled. Be aware that road surfaces can be uneven or gravelly near roadworks, so adjust your speed and drive accordingly.
Plan your route with potential roadworks in mind. Checking for roadwork updates online or through GPS apps can help you avoid delays and make your journey smoother.
Driving a campervan or motorhome in New Zealand can be a fantastic way to explore the country, offering flexibility and convenience. However, these larger vehicles require different handling compared to regular cars.
Firstly, campervans and motorhomes are wider and taller. Hence, you need to be aware of their size, especially when navigating narrow roads and bridges. Take corners slowly and carefully, and be mindful of the vehicle’s height when approaching low-hanging branches or structures.
These vehicles also have a longer stopping distance, so maintain a greater following distance from the vehicle in front of you. Braking suddenly in a heavy vehicle can be more difficult and dangerous, so anticipate stops and slow down gradually.
When driving uphill or downhill, use lower gears to maintain control and avoid overheating the brakes. On long descents, brake gently and intermittently rather than continuously to prevent brake fade.
Parking can be challenging with a larger vehicle, so choose your spots wisely. Many towns and tourist spots have designated parking areas for campervans and motorhomes. Always check for signs and follow local parking regulations.
Lastly, remember that driving a campervan or motorhome can be tiring. Take regular breaks to rest and refresh, ensuring you stay alert and safe on the road.
New Zealand’s rural roads often have animals wandering near or on them. Sheep, cows, and even wild animals can be a hazard, so stay vigilant.
Reduce your speed when driving in rural areas and watch for animal crossing signs. These signs indicate areas where animals are likely to be on or near the road. If you see animals ahead, slow down and be prepared to stop. Sheep and cows can be unpredictable, and sudden movements can lead to accidents.
At night, animals can be harder to see, so use your high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic to increase visibility. Be cautious, as animals may be startled by headlights and move unpredictably.
If you encounter a farmer herding animals across the road, be patient and follow any directions given. It’s common in rural New Zealand, and cooperation helps ensure the safety of both the animals and road users.
By staying alert and driving carefully, you can avoid collisions and enjoy the unique experience of sharing the road with New Zealand’s diverse wildlife and farm animals.
New Zealand is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and you’ll want to take in the views as you drive. However, safety should always come first.
Stopping on the side of the road to take photos or admire the scenery can be dangerous if not done correctly. Look for designated lookout points and rest areas where you can safely pull over. These spots are designed for travellers to enjoy the views without risking accidents.
Avoid stopping on narrow or busy roads, as this can obstruct traffic and create hazards. If you see something you’d like to photograph or explore, continue driving until you find a safe place to pull over.
Remember that while the scenery is beautiful, your focus should be on driving. Distracted driving can lead to accidents, so keep your attention on the road and your surroundings.
By planning your stops and being mindful of safety, you can enjoy New Zealand’s incredible vistas without compromising your safety or the safety of others.
Driving in New Zealand requires some adjustments, especially if you need to get used to driving on the left side of the road or navigating winding, narrow paths. However, with these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey. Take your time, respect the road rules, and soak in the stunning views that New Zealand has to offer. Happy driving!
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© 2024 The Middle Age Wanderer
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16 Responses
Thanks for the info. I had not given any thought about an international drivers license before. Glad I learned I don’t need it since from an English speaking county. Also, never in my life did I think I would see a Kiwi crossing sign. That picture made me smile, those are cute little birds. Thanks a bunch
We saw a few of the kiwi crossing signs, but as they are nocturnal, we didn’t see any of them. We always check about needing an International Drivers License. Most of the time your fine, but sometimes you do need one.
Thankfully, I belong to 34% of the world’s population. Even if it was the other way round, I would not have missed driving on these scenic routes of New Zealand.
I’m with you being part of the 34% and definitely agree with the amazing scenery in NZ
Great post. Driving is very similar around the world however, it can be quite different also, so thanks for the tips.
Thanks Sharyn. There are always a few little things different in each country.
Great advice! I’ve gotten relatively used to driving on the left side of the road, though I still struggle with manual shifting cars on the “wrong side” for me.
Haha Sonia, it’s the “right” side for me coming from Australia. Always takes me a day to get used to driving on the “other” side when I’m travelling to those countries that drive on the right hand side.
Hi. Thanks for all of the great information. I obtained my international license for my travels in Italy last year. I am always a little nervous to drive in a foreign country. izzy
It’s definitely an interesting experience especially if road signs are in a different language.
We plan to visit New Zealand for a road trip. So these driving tips are great to keep for when we start our planning. Good reminder about driving on the left hand side. It will take us a few days to get used to that!
You will love NZ Linda. And it is definitely worth driving to be able to stop and explore when you want to.
I would never be brave enough to drive in NZ on the left side of the road. I have been in too many near misses in a car in the Virgin Islands. But this is a great primer if this doesn’t scare you.
The driving in NZ is generally pretty good and while you do get a few people doing stupid things, we found it reasonably easy to drive in.
Thats a lovely detailed guide, thank you so much! I always apply for the IDP now, just to be on the safe side. That’s a quick visit and 15 Euro for where I live in Germany, and peace of mind.
We grab an international drivers license for most countries too. Coming from Australia we were fine in NZ.