Road conditions, travel distances New Zealand — trip guide

DRIVE ON THE LEFT

TIP: travel from Europe / North America involves considerable travel. Give yourself a day (or two) to get your body clock in sync with where you are before embarking on a road trip. For our neighbours, Australia we just a short hop across the ditch (three hour flight to Sydney).

TIP: New Zealand roads can be narrow and winding. Road signs indicate rest stops which are usually good spots to take in the views.

Journey planner and checking road conditions before you depart. New Zealand government has Regions, a New Zealand Transport Authority online portal for motorists. A great way to find out if the road is blocked, closed due to maintenance or simply congested.

Drive safe New Zealand

Tips for your arrival:

If you are arriving on a long-haul flight, consider staying overnight in that destination. That will ensure you are fresh and ready for the drive ahead.
Make sure your drivers licence is valid and has been translated (if required).
You must have your current and valid driver licence with you at all times when driving in New Zealand. If you have an International Driving Permit you must also carry your current and valid driver licence.

If your overseas driver licence is not in English, you must carry an accurate English translation issued by one of the following:
- A translation service approved by the NZ Transport Agency (a list is available at www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/residents-visitors/translators.html)
- Apex recommends the Trans National Ltd translation service (www.driverlicencetranslation.co.nz)
- A diplomatic representative at a high commission, embassy or consulate
- The authority that issued your overseas licence
An International Driving Permit (issued in accordance with a United Nations Convention on Road Traffic) is acceptable only as a translation.