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Road Traffic Regulations

Basic Traffic Regulations Principles


Right-Hand Drive and Left-Hand Traffic

  • Vehicles are Right-Hand Drive: Vehicles in New Zealand are right-hand drive, meaning the steering wheel is on the right side of the car.

  • Drive on the Left Side of the Road: Always drive on the left side of the road.

  • Narrow Roads Without Center Lines: Some narrow roads may not have center line markings. In such cases, you must still drive on the left side.

  • Do Not Cross the Center Line: Do not cross the center line unless it is necessary for safely overtaking another vehicle or moving off the road.

Turning at Intersections

Give Way Sign: You must give way to all vehicles except those waiting at a stop sign.

Stop Sign: You must come to a complete stop and then give way to all vehicles.

Navigating Roundabouts: At a roundabout, you must travel in a clockwise direction and give way to vehicles coming from the right.

Single-Lane Bridges

Some roads have single-lane bridges. The signs warn you of an upcoming single-lane bridge. Slow down and check for oncoming traffic. If you need to give way, stop. The red arrow indicates which direction must yield.

Give Way Signs: These signs indicate that you must give way to oncoming vehicles.

Bridge Crossing Sign: This sign indicates that you may cross the bridge if there are no oncoming vehicles.

Mobile Phones

Mobile Phone Use: You are not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving. If you need to use it, you must use hands-free mode. Any use of a mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Sharp Turns

Sharp Turn Signs: These signs indicate that there is a sharp turn ahead and suggest an appropriate driving speed. The arrows show the direction of the bend.

Seat Belts

Seat Belt Requirement: According to the law, everyone in the vehicle, regardless of their seat position, must wear a seat belt.

Child Safety Seats

Children Under 7 Years Old

Must use an approved child safety seat.

7-Year-Old Children

Must use an approved child safety seat if available, or wear a seat belt.

Children 8 Years Old and Above

Must wear a seat belt.

All Adults

Must wear a seat belt.

Parking-Related Sign Definitions

Time-Restricted Parking: This section of the road (on both sides) allows free parking for 20 minutes, valid all day.

Time-Restricted Parking: This section of the road (on both sides) allows free parking for up to 120 minutes from Monday to Friday. There are no restrictions on parking during weekends (Saturday and Sunday).

Metered Parking: This section of the road has metered parking.

Temporary Parking: This section of the road (on the right side) is designated for temporary loading and unloading. Drivers must not leave the vehicle for more than 5 minutes.

No Parking: Parking is prohibited at all times.

No Parking During Certain Hours: Parking is prohibited during the specified time periods.

Parking Regulations

  • Violation Consequences: If you do not park according to the instructions, your vehicle may be towed, and you will need to pay fines and towing fees.

  • Scenic Stops: New Zealand's scenery is stunning. If you wish to stop to enjoy the views or take photos, make sure to park safely in designated areas where parking is allowed.

Major Traffic Violations in New Zealand

Traffic Violations and Penalties

Traffic Violations

Penalties

Speeding

Fines range from 30 to 630 NZD.

Running a Red Light

Fine of 150 NZD.

Not Wearing a Seatbelt 

Fine of 150 NZD.

Driving Under the Influence

Fines range from 200 to 4500 NZD.

Using a Mobile Phone While Driving

Fine of 150 NZD.

Driving Without a Valid License

Fines range from 400 to 1000 NZD.

Unauthorized Use of Bus Lanes

Fine of 150 NZD (if stopped for more than 50 meters).

Failure to Yield or Unsafe Overtaking

May result in accidents and complaints to the police by other road users.

Speeding Fines

Speeding Details

Fines

10 km/h or less over the limit

$30

11-15 km/h over the limit

$80

16-20 km/h over the limit

$120

21-25 km/h over the limit

$170

26-30 km/h over the limit

$230

31-35 km/h over the limit

$300

36-40 km/h over the limit

$400

41-45 km/h over the limit

$510

46-50 km/h over the limit

$630

Source: NZTA (New Zealand Transport Agency)

Fines Payment Method

Upon receiving a fine incurred during your rental period, we will email the fine to you and charge the fine amount plus a $25 NZD service fee to your credit card.

Roads Not Covered by Insurance

Vehicle Damage Exclusions: Damage caused to the vehicle when driving on the following roads (including but not limited to) or any unsealed surfaces or beaches is not covered by the insurance provided by MIC rental company or any additional insurance purchased by the customer. The customer is responsible for all associated costs:

  • Ball Hutt Road (Mt Cook)

  • Deer Park Heights (Queenstown)

  • Skippers Road (Queenstown)

  • All roads north of Colville (Coromandel Peninsula)

  • The Road to Paradise (Glenorchy)

  • Ninety Mile Beach (Northland)

Emergency and Rescue Phone Numbers

AA Roadside Assistance: 0800-734-543 (24/7 Service)

  • AA Roadside Assistance Username: 209093


New Zealand Emergency Services: 111


MIC Emergency Contact:

  • Phone: 09 600 6660

    • After selecting language, press:

      • "0" for Customer Service

      • "1" for Auckland Store

      • "2" for Christchurch Store

      • "3" for Queenstown Store

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