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Yellow KiwiArticle published at:
September 13, 2026Article comments count:
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New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world to explore by car. You can wake up on a beach, have lunch next to a lake, and be in the mountains by sunset. But while the roads are beautiful, they can also catch overseas drivers by surprise.
Many backpackers come from countries with different road rules, flatter terrain, and wider highways. Before you hit the road, here are some of the biggest things to watch out for.
Drive on the Left
Let's start with the obvious one. In New Zealand, we drive on the left-hand side of the road.
This sounds simple, but it's one of the biggest causes of accidents involving overseas visitors. The risk is highest when:
- Pulling out of a car park
- Entering an empty road
- Making turns at intersections
- Driving after a long day on the road
A good habit is to remind yourself: "Keep left, keep left, keep left." It might feel strange for the first few days, but you'll quickly get used to it.
One-Lane Bridges
You'll find one-lane bridges all over New Zealand, especially in rural areas and on the South Island.
As the name suggests, these bridges are only wide enough for one direction of traffic at a time. Before crossing, look for the signs at each end of the bridge.
The signs will tell you:
- Whether you have priority
- Whether the oncoming vehicle has priority
- Or whether neither direction has priority
If you're unsure, slow down and let the other vehicle go first. Losing ten seconds is better than having an awkward standoff in the middle of a bridge.
Roundabouts Can Be Confusing
If you're not used to roundabouts, take your time.
The golden rule is:
Give way to traffic already on the roundabout.
Also remember to indicate correctly:
- Signal left when exiting at the first exit.
- Signal right if turning right.
- Signal left just before leaving the roundabout.
Many backpackers find New Zealand's roundabouts easier than traffic lights once they get the hang of them.
Gravel Roads Are More Common Than You Think
Not every road in New Zealand is sealed.
If you're heading to remote beaches, DOC campsites, hiking tracks, or scenic lookouts, you'll often encounter gravel roads.
When driving on gravel:
- Slow down
- Increase your following distance
- Avoid sudden steering inputs
- Brake gently
Gravel roads can become extremely slippery after rain. Your stopping distance will be much longer than on normal tarmac.
Passing Lanes Don't Last Long
New Zealand highways are rarely huge multi-lane motorways.
Most long-distance routes are single carriageways with occasional passing lanes. These are short sections where slower vehicles keep left while faster traffic overtakes.
When a passing lane appears:
- Don't speed up if you're being overtaken
- Stay left if you're driving slowly
- Overtake quickly and safely if needed
My personal tip for backpackers who are new to New Zealand roads: I usually skip the first passing lane if I'm not completely comfortable with the road, traffic, or how the car is performing. I'd rather wait for the next opportunity and make sure I have plenty of room. As a rough rule of thumb, count to 10 as that is usually enough time to complete the overtake safely while having a comfortable gap afterwards. If I'm unsure, I simply stay behind and wait for the next passing lane. There's no shame in taking your time on unfamiliar roads.
Before moving out:
- Check your mirrors and blind spot.
- Indicate right early so the driver ahead knows your intentions.
- Some drivers appreciate a quick headlight flash, especially on quieter roads, but don't rely on it as a substitute for proper signalling.
- Commit to the manoeuvre and maintain a steady speed.
- Move back left once you can clearly see the overtaken vehicle in your rear-view mirror.
Remember, there's no prize for overtaking every slow vehicle you encounter. If you're unsure, stay patient and wait for the next passing lane. A few extra minutes is far better than taking risks on unfamiliar roads.
Railway Crossings
Not all railway crossings have barriers.
When approaching a crossing:
- Slow down
- Check both directions
- Obey all warning signs and lights
Trains move much faster than they appear, especially in rural areas.
Watch Out for New Zealand's "Hilly" Roads
One thing that surprises many backpackers is just how hilly New Zealand can be.
On the map, a route might look short. In reality, it could involve winding mountain roads, steep climbs, and sharp corners.
A 100 km drive in New Zealand often takes much longer than a 100 km drive in larger countries with flat highways.
Always allow extra travel time and avoid driving when you're tired.
Winter Driving: Things Can Get Serious Quickly
If you're travelling between May and September, especially on the South Island, winter driving deserves extra respect.
Black Ice
Black ice is one of the biggest dangers on New Zealand roads.
It's a thin layer of ice that's almost invisible and often looks just like a wet road surface.
Black ice is most common:
- Early in the morning
- At night
- In shaded areas
- On bridges
- In mountain regions
If you hit ice:
- Stay calm
- Avoid sudden braking
- Keep the steering wheel steady
- Let the vehicle slow naturally
Mountain Passes
Some of New Zealand's most beautiful roads are also the most challenging.
Popular routes such as:
- Arthur's Pass
- Lindis Pass
- Crown Range Road
can experience snow, ice, fog, and high winds during winter.
Road conditions can change within hours, so never assume yesterday's weather is today's weather.
Snow Chains
If you're travelling through alpine regions during winter, carrying snow chains is a smart idea, even if you never end up using them.
Budget around $80 for a pair of snow chains. You can usually find entry-level sets at stores like Bunnings or Mitre 10 for around this price, while premium chains for larger vehicles can cost significantly more.
-
Before leaving:
- Make sure the chains fit your tyre size
- Learn how to install them
- Practice once in daylight
Trying to fit chains for the first time on the side of a freezing mountain road is not fun.
Check the Weather Before Every Long Drive
New Zealand weather is famous for changing quickly, always check MetService if you're unsure.
Before setting off, check:
- Rain forecasts
- Strong wind warnings
- Snow forecasts
- Frost warnings
A route that looks perfectly safe in the morning can become challenging by the afternoon.
Check for Road Closures
Before travelling through mountain regions or remote areas, check for road alerts and closures.
Heavy rain, slips, flooding, snow, and accidents can occasionally shut roads for hours.
Getting stuck isn't usually dangerous, but it can completely derail your travel plans if you're on a tight schedule.
Final Thoughts
Driving around New Zealand is one of the best ways to see the country. You'll discover places that buses never reach and have the freedom to travel at your own pace.
But don't underestimate the roads. Between one-lane bridges, winding mountain passes, gravel roads, sudden weather changes, and winter driving conditions, New Zealand can be very different from what many backpackers are used to.
Take your time, plan ahead, drive to the conditions, and you'll have an unforgettable Kiwi road trip for all the right reasons.