Keep LEFT! We drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Always slow down to observe recommended speeds around bends.

Stay well-rested. Plan to only drive 1 - 2 hours at a time, and take regular breaks during your journey to stretch your legs.

Keep to the speed limit and always stop at STOP signs.

Always wear your seat belt. Everyone in your vehicle must wear a seatbelt, and children must be secured in an approved child seat. Your rental vehicle company can rent child seats to you if you did not bring your own

Overtake other vehicles only when it is safe to do so. Use passing lanes whenever possible, and never cross a solid yellow line on your side of the centre line.

Do not drink and drive. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a crime in New Zealand and strictly enforced by police, with severe penalties for offenders.

Use this Driving Time and Distance Calculator or GPS to estimate driving times while planning your journey. Driving in New Zealand can often take longer than expected due to our winding roads.

Drive to the conditions. You wellll need to reduce your speed if it is raining, icy or snowing, windy, or if you are in a roadworks area. Ask your accommodation provider if in doubt.

It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in New Zealand. If you need to make a call or send a text, pull over at a rest area or in a safe place.