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Driving in New Zealand

There are a number of important rules to remember when driving in New Zealand. For a full list of road rules please see the official NZ Transport Agency website.

Keep to the Left

You must always keep to the left when driving on roads in New Zealand.

Road Speed Limits

You must keep to the set speed limits when you drive around New Zealand. If you cannot see a speed sign, the general rule is:

Urban, Residential, City Areas

If you are in an urban, residential or city area of New Zealand, the speed limit is generally 50 kilometres per hour. If you are driving past a school between the hours of 9am and 3:30pm, the speed limit is generally 10 kilometres slower (generally 40 kilometres per hour).

Rural Areas

If you are in a rural area of New Zealand that does not have built up residential housing, the speed limit is generally 100 kilometres per hour.

Towing a Trailer

If you are towing a trailer or driving a vehicle with more than two axles in New Zealand, you are limited to 90 kilometres per hour (rather than 100 kilometres per hour). All other speed limits apply as shown on the speed signs.

Licences

You must hold a current drivers licence to drive any vehicle on New Zealand roads. Your international licence may be valid for a certain period of time in New Zealand, or you may need to apply for an international driving licence so you can drive on New Zealand roads.

For a full list of information about driving on New Zealand roads see the NZ Transport Agency website.