Heading
to New Zealand and looking forward to getting out on the open road? There's
nowhere better for it. But before you set off in your rental car, make sure you
know what you're doing on New Zealand's roads.
Renting a car whilst on holiday can be a great
experience, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. And there are
few places on earth more perfect than New Zealand for taking to the road and
discovering spectacular and secluded sights. However, there are a few things to
bear in mind whilst driving down under…
·
Licence
- You must have your current valid driver's licence with you at all times when
you're driving in New Zealand. If your licence is not in English, make sure you
carry an English translation or an International Driving Permit with you. As
long as your licence remains valid, you can drive in New Zealand for a maximum
of 12 months from the date you arrive using this permit.
·
Stay
left - In New Zealand, people drive on the left. If
you're an Aussie or a Brit, this is perfect - but if you're travelling from
anywhere else, remember to take extra care when pulling out. It's easy to slip
into autopilot.
·
Turning
right? Give way - At an intersection, give way to all
vehicles that are not turning. If you've driven in New Zealand before, bear in
mind some
of the rules have changed and drivers turning right should
now give way to oncoming traffic.
·
No
left turn on red - In some countries you may be used to
turning left on a red light as long as the road is clear. In New Zealand this
is not allowed - red means stop, no matter what way you're going.
·
Look
out for pedestrians - When turning at traffic
signals, give way to pedestrians - the green man will come on at many
intersection crossings at the same time as the lights will turn green for you
to turn.
·
Hang
up - it is illegal in New Zealand to use a mobile or
cell phone whilst driving, unless the device is completely hands free.
·
Travel
times - New Zealand may not look that big, but travel
times can be long, with many narrow, unsealed and hilly roads to negotiate on
your way to some of the country's best sights. Plan your route in advance and
think about where you'll stop to rest for the night.
·
Watch
your speed - Speed limits in New Zealand are in kilometres
rather than miles, with 100km/h being the limit on most motorways and main
rural roads. Unless a sign says otherwise, the speed limit is usually 50km/h in
urban or built- up areas.
·
Park
wisely - Make sure you park in the direction of traffic
flow on your side of the road. You could end up with a fine, or worse, having
your car towed for parking on the wrong side of the street.
·
Know
where you stand - Thoroughly check your rental agreement and
ask any questions before you drive away. What kind of insurance do you have?
Are you covered for minor
scrapes or unforeseen necessities like windscreen repair? Taking a few minutes to read the small print
could save you getting landed with a hefty bill - money that could be spent on
experiencing more of New Zealand's spectacular scenery and activities.
Have
you ever rented a car in New Zealand?
2 comments:
having this such informative blog is so helpful. thanks for posting professional detailing tips..
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