Now you have booked your New Zealand self-drive holiday you may have a few questions before you hit the road. We have put together a helpful guide with the most common questions about driving in New Zealand.
We have put together some helpful tips to help make driving in New Zealand easier.
The benefits of being a UK visitor driving in New Zealand during your New Zealand holiday is that they drive on the same side of the road on the left side. Making it that little bit easier when you begin your journey. Same as in the UK in New Zealand when approaching a roundabout gave way to the right and the traffic moves in a clockwise direction.
When overtaking on roads only do so when it’s safe to do so. A solid yellow line on your side of the centre line means it’s too dangerous to overtake. A double yellow centre line means that no one on either side of the road can overtake. Most roads in New Zealand have a single lane each way. Sometimes there’s a passing lane. Use the passing lanes when overtaking – please be patient until you reach them.
Many of the roads in New Zealand hilly, narrow and winding so some distances may take longer to drive than you expect. Take this into consideration when driving to any pre booked tours to ensure you arrive on time.
In New Zealand road signs are displayed in KM/H, different road’s have different average speed limits these will be displayed on the road you are driving on. Sometimes you’ll need to go slower than the limit to drive safely, like when it’s raining or foggy. You must not drive faster than 90km/h if you’re driving a vehicle that weighs over 3500kgs or towing another vehicle such as a boat, caravan or trailer – even on a road marked 100km/h.
You may be amazed by New Zealand spectacular scenery while driving but it’s important to keep your eyes on the road while driving. If you want to enjoy the view find a safe space to pull over, please be aware that you shouldn’t stop at no stopping signs or on dashed yellow lines.
Q) Can I use my UK drivers’ licence to drive in New Zealand?
A) Yes, your UK drivers’ licence can be used to drive in New Zealand for tourism purposes. You must carry your drivers licence on you at all times.
Q) Do I need to wear a seatbelt?
A) Yes, everyone in the car must wear a seatbelt. If you are seen not wearing a you may be fined by the police.
Q) What’s the speed limit in New Zealand?
A) In New Zealand, the general speed limits are, 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up or urban areas and 100 km/h (62 mph) on open roads and motorways
Some areas, such as school zones or residential streets, may have lower limits (30–40 km/h). Always look out for posted signs, as speed limits are strictly enforced with roadside and mobile speed cameras.
Q) Is fuel expensive in New Zealand?
A) Fuel in New Zealand is relatively expensive compared to the UK and Europe. As of late 2025, average prices are roughly:
Prices vary by region generally higher in remote areas and cheaper in larger cities. It’s also worth noting that diesel vehicles pay separate road user charges (RUC), which can add to the overall cost of travel.
Q) Can I use my mobile phone when driving?
A) No, it’s illegal to use your mobile phone when driving. This includes touching your phone while using maps.
Q) Are roads in New Zealand easy to drive on?
A) Generally, yes roads are well maintained and clearly signposted. However, many rural and scenic routes can be narrow, winding, or mountainous, so allow extra time for travel.
Q) Are there toll roads in New Zealand?
A) Yes, there are a few electronic toll roads around Auckland and Tauranga, payable online or via rental companies.
At TripsBeyond there are a number of ways you can contact us meaning that all you have to do is choose the option which is most convenient to you.
0800 270 0009
Request a Callback
Enquire
At TripsBeyond there are a number of ways you can contact us meaning that all you have to do is choose the option which is most convenient to you.
0800 270 0009
Make An Enquiry
Request A Callback
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