Drive Safely with Southern Kiwi Vehicle Rental

Long distances and winding roads can be tiring. Take breaks regularly, and never use your phone while driving.

New Zealand has many one-lane bridges, especially in rural areas. Signs will indicate which direction has priority. If in doubt, Yield or Give Way to oncoming traffic.

New Zealand’s roads, especially in rural and mountainous areas, are often narrow and winding. If you’re driving a larger vehicle like one of our minibuses or enjoying the scenery at a slower pace, it’s important to be courteous to other drivers:

• Use Pull-Over Bays: Many roads have designated pull-over areas or passing bays. If there’s a line of vehicles behind you, pull over when it’s safe to let them pass.
• Don’t Hold Up Traffic: It’s a common courtesy to allow faster-moving vehicles to continue their journey without delay. Keeping traffic flowing smoothly ensures safety and minimizes frustration for everyone.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure: If other drivers seem impatient, don’t feel rushed. Wait for the next safe opportunity to let them pass.

Remember, driving considerately isn’t just polite—it’s also part of what makes a New Zealand road trip enjoyable for everyone!

New Zealand’s roads can be narrow and winding, often marked with dashed lines that indicate overtaking is permitted. However, these lines don’t always mean it’s safe to pass. Extreme care is required:

• Check for Clear Visibility: Only overtake if you have a clear, straight stretch of road ahead with no oncoming traffic. Avoid overtaking near bends, hills, or in poor weather conditions.
• Be Mindful of Road Markings: Dashed lines may appear on challenging stretches, but this is only an indication of permission, not safety. If you’re unsure, it’s better to wait for a safer opportunity.
• Use Designated Passing Lanes: Many highways and rural roads have passing lanes. Plan to overtake at these points to minimize risks.
• Signal Your Intentions: Always use your indicators to signal before overtaking, ensuring other drivers know your intentions.
• Be Patient: If you’re behind a slow-moving vehicle, stay calm and wait for a safe chance to pass. Never rush overtaking, as it’s one of the most dangerous maneuvers on the road.

By overtaking with care and respect for other drivers, you’ll help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.

• Urban areas: 30 or 50 or 60 km/h (observe the posted limit).
• Open roads: 100 km/h (unless otherwise posted).
  Always adjust your speed for weather and road conditions, and watch for signs, other vehicles, people and animals.

Seatbelts must be worn by all passengers at all times, whether you’re in the front or back seats. Child restraints are required for children up to and including 7 years old.

It’s common to encounter sheep, cows, or wildlife on rural roads. Slow down, be patient, and give animals plenty of space. To help ensure your safety resist the urge to swerve.

The left lane is for regular driving, and the right lane is used for overtaking. After overtaking, return to the left lane when it’s safe.

New Zealand’s weather can change rapidly. Check road conditions before you travel, especially in winter or mountainous areas. Use resources like NZ Transport Agency for updates. If you are headed up to a Ski field, Snow Chains are mandatory regardless of the conditions. Snow Chains are available for hire from Southern Kiwi Vehicle Rental.

If you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, you might encounter gravel roads. Drive slowly and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel. Remember that your rental vehicle is not insured for travel on some specific roads and beaches.

Many roads in New Zealand are narrow, winding, and often have no shoulder. Adjust your speed and driving style based on the conditions. Take extra care in wet or icy weather. Black ice can be present on New Zealand roads, especially in the South Island over winter.

Our team at Southern Kiwi Vehicle Rental is here to ensure your road trip is safe and stress-free. If you have questions about driving in New Zealand or need help planning your route, we’re just a call away.

• NZ Road Code: Check out the official guide here.
• Current Road Conditions: Visit NZ Transport Agency here.