Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a New Zealand road trip. There may be a
few differences between driving in New Zealand and how you drive at home. If you
think that driving on the left was the only difference you are in for a few
surprises. Watch this video and you too could drive like a local. But first
please, like, subscribe, commen,t share and don't forget to hit the notification
bell.
Whatt to know when renting a car. Yes, you can wait until getting to New Zealand to
rent a car, but you'll get a better price and more options if you book earlier
before your trip.It's often easiest online although you can also book by
phone. Most rental cars can be reserved online
or by phone, with major international chains or smaller companies. Generally
speaking in order to drive a basic rental car in New Zealand you must be
over 21 years of age and hold of valid driver's license. If your driver's
license is not in English you need to obtain an international driver's license.
Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. In New Zealand it
is not mandatory to have car insurance. Because it is mandatory car insurance
might seem tempting to ignore however there is always a risk factor involved
it is up to you.
Number two. Know the rules of the road.
Drive on the left side of the road, this is the number one rule for driving in
New Zealand.
Use roundabouts by driving clockwise, keep an eye out on traffic lights using
the correct lanes and all that good stuff, if you end up missing a turn off
or being stuck in the wrong lane make your way back legally don't do
any dramatic u-turns. Overtaking in New Zealand obviously only overtake when you
can see it as safe. Most of the roads are single lane in New Zealand. If you
start to get a line of vehicles driving behind you keep an eye out for a safe
place to pull over and then let them pass. Some roads have passing lanes,
which is your best option for overtaking.
Many bridges in New Zealand are single lane bridges, if there is a vehicle on
the opposite side of the bridge there will be a sign with arrows showing which
side of the bridge has priority. The small red arrow must give way to the
larger black arrow. There are signs on New Zealand's roads
indicating the maximum speed you can drive on that road. Most of the rural
roads the limit is 100 km/h in urban areas it tends to be 50 kilometres per
hour, you will also see recommended speeds for sharp corners sign posted.
Number three. Expect longer travel times what may seem like a short distance on
the map and actually be much more longer in reality as New Zealand roads tend to
be windy hilly and narrow. This can add to your travel time, keep this in mind
when planning to travel so you don't end up rushing to get to your destination.
Beware of gravel and unsealed roads. When you get off the beaten path expect to
find yourself on gravel and unsealed roads, some less maintained gravel roads
can be uneven so you'll want to slow down. Have regular breaks to avoid
getting tired. New Zealand has its own unique road
hazards. Beware driving at dusk and at night, many animals tend to warm
themselves on the tarmac of the road.
Number four. Common-sense driving regulations.
Always wear your seatbelt.
It is illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving,
you must use a hands-free device if you want to chatter to your mates while driving..
Don't drink or use drugs then drive. Although there is an alcohol limit
for driving in New Zealand it is best not to drink or drive at all.
Number five. Saving tips on car rentals. It may be cheaper to pick up your
vehicle int the city versus at the airport. Inspect your car carefully before
taking it, write down any damage you notice. Avoid one-way booking fees if you
can. Most of the times when you travel from south to north they waive the fee. Most
people start at the north and end in the south which brings us to: check for car
relocation options. Many people leave their car at Christchurch and the cars
need to be transferred back to the home office in Auckland, that is when car
rentals throw in some really nice deals. If you have enjoyed this video please, like,
subscribe, comment and share and do not forget to ring the notification bell. Til
next time happy and safe travels.