Driving
in New Zealand

New Zealand Roads

Self-driving holidays are one if the most relaxing ways of enjoying New Zealand’s landscape. Many of our roads are scenic and traffic is low when compared to international standards. Although New Zealand is a relatively small country it can take many hours to drive between cities and other destinations of interest.

Even when distances are short, hilly, or winding terrain or narrow secondary roads can slow your journey. If you’re used to driving in the city, you should take care when driving on the open country roads.

New Zealand has a good motorway system but weather extremes, the terrain and narrow secondary roads and bridges require drivers to be very vigilant. Never drive if you are feeling tired, particularly after you have just completed a long-haul flight.

International Driving Licences and Permit

To rent a car in New Zealand you must have a valid full national driving licence which has been held for at least one year. Make sure your driver’s licence is current. If your licence is not in English, you must bring a current International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation as well as your original driving licence. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an IDP.

Recent law changes mean all drivers, including visitors from other countries, must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 21 years.

Road Rules & General Information

• In New Zealand, all motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road;
• All road distances are measured in kilometres;
• When turning left, give way (yield) to traffic crossing or approaching from your right. On March 25, 2012, New Zealand’s Give Way rule changed to align with international give way to the left rules. While this may be normal for you, New Zealand drivers may take some time to get used to the change and you should take extra care at intersections;
• When the traffic light is red, you must stop. There is no left turn rule as in North America;
• The speed limit on the open road is 100kph (approx. 60mph). In urban areas the speed limit is 50km/h;
• Both drivers and passengers must wear a safety belt in both the front and back seats. All children under the age of seven must be properly restrained by an approved child restraint when travelling in cars or vans;
• Make sure that you have plenty of sleep before a long drive. Take regular breaks – one every two hours and when you feel sleepy;
• Do not drink alcohol before driving in New Zealand – drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced.

Drive Safe & Other Resources

Even if you have driven in other countries, it’s important to understand our rules for driving in New Zealand before you get behind the wheel. Further Drive Safe information can be found at drivesafe.org.nz.

• Take a tourist/visitor test to learn about New Zealand’s road rules
• Download the TravelSafeNZ app to stay updated with local conditions

Driving Distances - North Island

The following chart gives you an approximate indication of distances between the main destinations in the North Island of New Zealand.

Driving Distances - South Island

The following chart gives you an approximate indication of distances between the main destinations in the South Island of New Zealand.

Please note highways were used to calculate distances between major towns.

Frequently Asked Questions