Notching Miles in NZ makes your Vacation more Intriguing

Underlining New Zealand's physical attractions- unpolluted beaches, its dramatic mountains and green countryside-are some epic survival stories of unique plants and animals, its rise of urbanism, a unique cultural heritage and more. Open country roads and long drives on lesser known trails are the best ways of experiencing this land of kiwis and emus. Driving in New Zealand is a lot of fun and introduces you to its excellent flora and fauna, local populace, great cuisines, events and festivals-in many more ways than one.


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Though good motorway systems are laid out for you in NZ, you need to be wary of the narrow secondary roads, dicey bridges, extremes of temperature and terrains that require extra vigilance and caution. Here we provide some pointers that tell you what's different about driving in New Zealand.

International Driving Permits and Licenses If you are armed with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a current driver's license from your country, then you can go driving in New Zealand for up to 12 months-legally. However, after the period expires, you need to convert your driving license to a NZ one. This is applicable for all your trips to this country. Remember to carry your permits and licenses at all times when driving. These papers entitle you to drive the vehicles that you drive back home. Also remember that the legal age to rent out a car in New Zealand is 21 years. If your driving license is not in English, you need to apply for an IDP or a translation at the earliest.
In case you are caught driving without an IDP or acceptable English license, you may end up getting prosecuted for driving without a proper license or driving unlicensed. You will also be liable to pay an infringement fee of up to NZ$1,000--if you get convicted in court. If you continue driving even after being forbidden, then your vehicle will be impounded for 28 days, at the expense of the vehicle owner. Also, in the event of a crash, you are at risk of not getting the proper insurance cover for the damages incurred.
In New Zealand, even within short distances, hilly or winding terrains as well as secondary roads tend to slow down your journey. So, if you want to stop on the way for eats or for enjoying the views, you must make a careful estimation of your journey times and plan accordingly.

Important rules:
* Remember to drive on the left-side of the road.
* Keep below or on the legal speed limits that are indicated on road signs.
A deeper knowledge of the various rules and regulations linked to driving in New Zealand will make your trip all the more interesting and hassle free. Happy Driving!