🚗 Driving in Aotearoa – What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road

1 Comment / Safety in Aotearoa – NZ / By
Piopiotahi

Driving is one of the best ways to explore Aotearoa – New Zealand. It gives you the freedom to visit remote beaches, alpine passes, and wild national parks. But if you’re new to our roads, it’s worth brushing up on a few key safety tips before you go.

Stay Left and Stay Alert

We drive on the left-hand side of the road. It might feel strange at first—especially at roundabouts or intersections—so stay mindful and take your time. A helpful trick is to stick a “Keep Left” note on your dashboard to remind yourself after rest stops. Another good hint? The centre line should always be on the driver’s side—a simple way to double-check you’re in the correct lane.

Expect Rural Challenges

Let’s face it—we all love a good detour, and rural roads in Aotearoa–New Zealand can be both breathtaking and unpredictable. Some detours will be by choice, others might not—but that’s part of the adventure. In our books, there’s no such thing as a wrong turn. It’s a tohu—a sign—so stay calm, take a breath, and enjoy the ride.

There’s a high chance you’ll encounter:

  • One-lane bridges (check signage to see who has right of way)
  • Gravel or unsealed roads in more remote regions
  • Livestock crossings—yes, cows and sheep still share the road!

Be patient, give a friendly wave, and enjoy the rural charm. When in doubt with livestock, the farmer or shepherd will usually signal you through—just follow their lead.

Be Weather-Wise

Weather conditions in Aotearoa–New Zealand can change fast, especially in mountain regions or along the West Coast. We lived on the maunga for a few years, and even just 30 minutes down the road the weather could be completely different. In Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, it’s not unusual to experience four seasons in one day.

Weather patterns are shifting everywhere—and our little corner of the world is no exception. Whether you’re driving over alpine passes or along coastal highways, it pays to be prepared:

  • Check road conditions before you go on the NZTA website
  • Avoid driving through flooded areas or fords, especially after heavy rain
  • In winter, snow chains may be required in alpine areas like Arthur’s Pass or the Desert Road

Understand Speed Limits and Road Conditions

Speed limits vary:

  • 100–110 km/h on open roads
  • 50 km/h in towns
  • 30 km/h near schools

Our highways are scenic but often narrow, winding and slower than you might expect. Take your time, watch for road signs and don’t rely too heavily on estimated drive times from Google Maps. Our friends from Europe & USA often mention how different our roads are. Instead of bypassing towns via motorways, Aotearoa –New Zealand’s highways go right through them. It’s all part of the charm. Each small town has its own unique feel, giving you a chance to experience the authentic Kiwi vibe along the way. And personally, we think a great way to support local businesses.

Fatigue is a Hidden Danger

Many visitors underestimate how tiring our roads can be. It’s not just the jet lag or long distances, it’s also the mental load of driving on the opposite side of the road, which can be a challenge in itself. Navigating roundabouts, parking in unfamiliar spots or even pulling U-turns can feel stressful when you’re adjusting.

Add to that our winding roads, the lack of motorways and you’ll find that driving here takes more concentration than expected. We also share our roads with large trucks, they do not have dedicated lanes and roadworks are a constant, from pothole repairs to major upgrades, it all adds up.

  • Stay Alert
  • Take breaks every few hours
  • Don’t drive after long hikes when you’re tired
  • Share the driving if possible

Final Tip

Aotearoa–New Zealand’s roads are more than just a way to get from A to B they’re part of the adventure. We’re not a big country, but there’s so much to see, so take that detour and see what happens. Soak up the scenery, follow the tohu and remember: the road is part of the magic—not just the route to it.

đŸ›» Planning to Travel by Campervan?

Check out our 13-Part Campervan Travel in Aotearoa-New Zealand Series, it includes:

  • How to stay safe on narrow, winding roads
  • Tips for navigating one-lane bridges and livestock crossings
  • What to know about Aotearoa-New Zealand’s Mountain passes and rural routes
  • How to handle changing weather and road closures

👉 Read more: Best Places to Stay in a Campervan in Aotearoa – New Zealand

Kia whakatƍmuri te haere whakamua

I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on the past.