Guides
on driving abroad information
supplied from insurance4carhire.com
May 2009 it is presented on this site without responsibilty of jml Property Services
/ insurance4carrental.com and should not be relied on for accuracy
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Driving
in New Zealand
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in the USA
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Driving
in New Zealand 
Driving
around New Zealand is a great way to see the country. Traffic is generally light,
the people are friendly and the scenery is spectacular. Brush up on the main rules
of the road with our handy guide and you’ll be all set to enjoy a wonderful holiday.
Key
rules, regulations and things to know
Drive
on the left. And park on the left, too, so that you’re not facing traffic.
Don’t
drink and drive. Legal limits are strictly enforced and penalties are harsh. It’s
best to avoid alcohol completely if you’re driving. Limit
is 80 mgs More
information Here
You
must come to a complete stop at a STOP sign. If cars are coming, you must give
way to them.
You
don’t have to come to a complete stop at a GIVE WAY sign if the coast is clear.
But you do have to slow down, check for oncoming traffic and prepare to stop before
you proceed.
Special
give way rules apply at intersections when one vehicle will cross the path of
another, or where two vehicles are waiting on STOP or GIVE WAY signs or where
there are no signs. In these cases, if you’re turning, you need to give way to
all vehicles that are going straight through the intersection. In all other situations,
give way to vehicles that are going straight or are coming from your right.
You
can’t turn left on a red light. No exceptions.
If
the centre line on your side of the road is yellow and unbroken, you can’t overtake.
It’s illegal (and usually dangerous) to do so.
Don’t
beep your horn unless you’re warning other drivers of imminent danger.
Seat
belts must be worn by the driver and all passengers at all times. And if you’re
travelling with a baby or young child, make sure they’re travelling in an approved
car or booster seat.
Speeds
and distances on road signs appear in kilometres. Not miles.
Allow
more time than you think you need to complete your journey. Although distances
may seem relatively small, many roads can be unsealed, narrower than what you’re
used to and cover hilly terrain.
Watch
out for animals on the road. Wildlife and farm animals are known to cross roadways
throughout the country. If you see them, wait for them to pass. And don’t sound
your horn, as it may startle them.
Winter
conditions can be harsh, particularly in mountain areas. Your rental company will
usually be able to provide snow chains with your vehicle. Do ask for them if necessary
and make sure you know how to use them.
Further
Information:
NZ
Transport Agency Official government website. Contains the full
New Zealand Road Code (road rules) as well as information designed especially
for tourists.
Finally,
Don’t forget your car hire excess insurance and buy it before you set off
Drink Drive Laws - Examples of what can be drunk at present
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