QuizTraffic rulesNew Zealand

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of New Zealand.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

1. It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

True.
✓ False.

Using your phone while driving is distracting and dangerous, even for a very short moment.

Driver glancing at a phone while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

2. What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
✓ Stop before the crossing and wait until it is safe to proceed.

Flashing warning lights mean a train may be approaching. Stop before the crossing and wait until the warning has ended and the crossing is clear.

Flashing warning lights at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

3. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
✓ Adaptive cruise control.
Lane-departure warning.

This symbol relates to adaptive cruise control (ACC). The system can maintain a selected speed and automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to help maintain a set distance from traffic ahead.

Adaptive cruise-control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

4. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

Pump the pedal repeatedly.
Press it as hard as possible immediately.
Use the parking brake instead.
✓ Apply pressure progressively.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

5. Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

They may interfere with the vehicle's electronics.
They usually make road signs harder to see.
They can change the tyre pressure.
✓ Their combined effects may impair your ability to drive.

Different medicines can interact or have combined side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or slower reactions. Check the instructions and seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is safe to drive.

Multiple medicines and their potential effects on driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid resting your hand on the gear lever while driving?

6. Why should you avoid resting your hand on the gear lever while driving?

It can disengage the clutch.
It can increase engine speed.
It can apply the parking brake.
✓ It can cause unnecessary wear in the gear-selection mechanism.

Resting your hand on the gear lever can place unnecessary pressure on parts of the gear-selection mechanism and contribute to wear. Keep both hands on the steering wheel when you are not changing gear.

Driver's hand resting on a manual gear lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

7. What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

✓ You remain responsible and must stay alert.
The systems can take full responsibility for driving.
The systems can always detect every hazard.
You may stop watching the road when they are active.

Driver-assistance systems can help with tasks such as maintaining speed, monitoring lanes, or warning about hazards, but they do not replace the driver. Stay attentive, monitor the road and traffic, and be ready to take control whenever necessary.

Driver monitoring the road while using driver assistance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

8. What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

Assume the trailer will follow the same path as the vehicle.
Begin overtaking as soon as the road looks clear.
✓ Allow extra time and distance for the manoeuvre.
Accelerate sharply once you move into the other lane.

A towing vehicle accelerates more slowly, and the trailer makes the whole vehicle combination longer. Remember to allow a much larger safe gap before overtaking and enough space to return safely to your lane.

Vehicle preparing to overtake while towing a trailer
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

9. What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

Tighten it as much as possible.
Keep riding if the motorcycle still moves normally.
✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Increase speed to keep the chain under tension.

A loose drive chain can affect power transmission, damage components, or come off the sprockets. The chain should have the correct tension and lubrication specified by the motorcycle manufacturer. A chain that is too tight can also cause damage.

Loose drive chain on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

10. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Diesel particulate filter warning.
✓ Diesel glow-plug preheating.
Engine-temperature warning.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates the diesel glow-plug preheating system. In a diesel vehicle, wait for the light to go out before starting the engine when required. If it remains illuminated or flashes while driving, it may indicate a fault.

Diesel glow-plug preheating symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

11. What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

The fuel gauge may become inaccurate.
The boot warning light may remain on.
✓ Exhaust fumes can be drawn into the passenger compartment.
The rear window demister may stop working.

Driving with the boot or tailgate open can allow exhaust gases to be drawn into the vehicle. Exhaust fumes may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may be difficult to detect. Keep the luggage compartment properly closed while driving whenever possible.

Open vehicle tailgate and exhaust-fume risk
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

12. What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

Open the coolant cap immediately to release heat.
Increase engine speed to improve coolant circulation.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and allow it to cool.
Continue driving slowly until the warning disappears.

Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can cause severe damage. Allow the engine to cool and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Engine-overheating warning on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a booster seat?

13. What is the main purpose of a booster seat?

✓ To position the vehicle seat belt correctly on the child.
To replace the vehicle's seat belt completely.
To make the child high enough to see through the windscreen.
To allow the child to sit without wearing a seat belt.

A booster seat raises and positions a child so the vehicle seat belt fits correctly. The lap belt should sit low across the hips and the shoulder belt should pass across the chest and shoulder, rather than the neck or abdomen.

Child seated in a booster with a vehicle seat belt
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

14. You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

True.
✓ False.

You should always check for cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users before opening a door.

Cyclist near the door of a parked car
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

15. Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

Driving in a lower gear and using the indicators.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.
Lower speed, dry roads, and good tyres.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.

Stopping distance can increase because of higher speed, slower driver reactions, reduced tyre grip, poor weather or road conditions, worn tyres, weak brakes, or a heavier vehicle. Both the driver's reaction distance and the vehicle's braking distance can be affected.

Road and vehicle conditions affecting stopping distance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do first after a collision?

16. What should you do first after a collision?

Discuss who caused the collision before calling for help.
Call your insurance company before checking for danger.
Continue driving if the vehicles can still move.
✓ Stop, check for danger and injuries, and call for help if needed.

Stop the vehicle, warn other traffic where appropriate, assess immediate danger and injuries, and contact the emergency services when needed. Exchange any details required by local law.

Vehicles stopped after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

17. What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

Sound your horn and continue at the same speed.
Flash your headlights repeatedly to make it move.
✓ Slow down and be prepared to stop.
Switch off your headlights as you approach.

Animals may freeze, turn back, or move unpredictably when caught in vehicle headlights.

Animal standing on a road at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in New Zealand?

18. Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in New Zealand?

German.
French.
Spanish.
✓ English.

Text-based road signs in New Zealand commonly use English.

Road signs with English wording
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

19. What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

Connect the leads without checking their polarity.
✓ Check the owner's manual and make sure the connections are compatible.
Start both vehicles before connecting the leads.
Use any battery that physically fits the vehicle.

Incorrect jump-starting can damage electrical systems, cause sparks, or make a battery explode. Connect the leads in the correct order before starting the vehicles, and follow the manufacturer's procedure exactly.

Preparing to jump-start a vehicle battery
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?

20. What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?

Open the bonnet fully to find where the fire started.
✓ Stop, switch off the engine, evacuate everyone, and call the emergency services.
Keep driving slowly until you find a safer place to stop.
Stay inside the vehicle while waiting for assistance.

Move everyone well away from the vehicle and call emergency services. If the fire is small and it is safe to do so, use a suitable fire extinguisher. Opening the bonnet fully can supply additional oxygen and cause the fire to intensify.

Vehicle with a fire breaking out
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

21. Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

To make the trailer easier to steer.
To reduce tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.
To prevent the trailer from blocking your view.

Towing adds weight and can increase stopping distance. Extra space gives you more time to react and brake smoothly.

Vehicle towing a trailer behind other traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

22. What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

Your insurance details and last service date.
Your vehicle colour and approximate location.
Only the road name and nearest town.
✓ Your exact location, direction of travel, vehicle details, and the problem.

Road numbers, junctions, location markers, direction of travel, and a clear description of the incident help assistance reach you quickly.

Requesting help after a vehicle breakdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a narrow road with oncoming traffic?

23. What should you do when approaching a narrow road with oncoming traffic?

Maintain your speed if there appears to be enough room.
Expect the oncoming driver to make room for you.
✓ Slow down and give space when needed.
Move closer to the road edge without reducing speed.

On narrow roads, reduce speed and be prepared to stop or use a suitable passing place. Leave enough space for the oncoming vehicle and avoid forcing either vehicle into an unsafe position.

Oncoming vehicles approaching a narrow stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

24. Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

✓ They could roll into the pedals and interfere with control.
They could make it harder to adjust the driver's seat.
They could damage the carpet around the pedals.
They could block the footwell ventilation.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell, such as bottles, cans, or rubbish, can roll into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Keep the footwell clear so you can operate the pedals safely and without obstruction.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Using indicators helps other road users understand your intentions.

25. Using indicators helps other road users understand your intentions.

False.
✓ True.

Indicators help communicate your intended direction and improve safety for everyone on the road.

Vehicle signalling its intended direction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

26. What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

Ride with the visor raised.
Cover the scratches with clear tape.
Use it only during daylight.
✓ Replace it before riding.

A badly scratched or damaged visor can reduce or distort your view, especially in bright sunlight or at night. Replace a visor that no longer provides a clear, safe view and follow the helmet manufacturer's instructions.

Scratched visor on a motorcycle helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the steering wheel after completing a turn?

27. What should you do with the steering wheel after completing a turn?

Hold it in the turned position.
Release it completely and let it spin freely.
✓ Guide it smoothly back towards the straight-ahead position.
Turn it quickly in the opposite direction.

After completing a turn, guide the steering wheel smoothly back towards the straight-ahead position while maintaining control. Do not allow the wheel to spin freely through your hands.

Guiding the steering wheel back after a turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

28. What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

✓ Check for tyre or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.
Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.
Continue driving normally if the tyre still looks inflated.
Reduce the tyre pressure to absorb further bumps.

A hard impact with a pothole can damage tyres, wheel rims, steering, suspension, or wheel alignment. When it is safe to stop, inspect the tyres and wheels and pay attention to unusual vibration, pulling, or steering changes. Have the vehicle checked if you suspect damage.

Checking a tyre and wheel after hitting a pothole
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen becomes damaged while driving?

29. What should you do if the windscreen becomes damaged while driving?

✓ Reduce speed and stop safely if your view is affected.
Drive faster to reach a safe place sooner.
Rely on the mirrors instead of the windscreen.
Continue driving if you can still see part of the road.

Severe damage can obstruct your view and weaken the glass. Do not continue if you cannot see the road clearly.

Damaged windscreen affecting the driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

30. What should you do with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

Keep it partly pressed.
Release it suddenly.
✓ Press it fully while maintaining firm brake pressure.
Pump it repeatedly.

During emergency braking in a manual vehicle, maintain firm pressure on the brake and press the clutch pedal fully so the engine does not stall as the vehicle slows. Do not reduce braking pressure while operating the clutch.

Brake and clutch operation during an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

31. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Rear window demister.
Windscreen washer.
Front windscreen demister.
Air recirculation.

This symbol indicates the rear window demister. It heats the rear window to help clear condensation, mist or frost and improve visibility.

Rear-window demister symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

32. Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.
The number of drinks matters more than their strength.
One drink affects every person in the same way.
Food makes each drink count as less alcohol.

Alcohol concentration and serving sizes vary, and factors such as body size, food, medication, and time can affect impairment.

Alcoholic drinks with different strengths and serving sizes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your lane is blocked by an obstacle?

33. What should you do if your lane is blocked by an obstacle?

Follow another vehicle around it without checking yourself.
Signal and expect oncoming traffic to make room.
Speed up to keep traffic flowing around the obstacle.
✓ Slow down, check carefully, and give way if needed.

If your lane is blocked, reduce speed, check mirrors and oncoming traffic, and only move around the obstacle when it is safe.

Obstacle blocking a vehicle's lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

34. What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

Releases the parking brake.
Selects accessory power.
✓ Switches off the engine and ignition systems.
Operates the starter motor.

Turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF switches off the engine and ignition systems. The key can then normally be moved to the LOCK position and removed.

OFF position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

35. What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

✓ Increase or decrease the selected cruising speed.
Switch between cruise control and the speed limiter.
Apply or release the parking brake.
Change the transmission gear.

When cruise control is active, the + and − controls normally increase or decrease the selected cruising speed. The amount of each adjustment can vary between vehicles.

Plus and minus controls for the cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

36. What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

✓ Slow down and use the sun visor if needed.
Increase speed to get through the glare more quickly.
Look only at the road immediately in front of you.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely as a guide.

Low sun can greatly reduce visibility. Slow down, increase your safety margin, and use the sun visor or sunglasses if needed.

Low sunlight dazzling a driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Is a warning triangle required in cars in New Zealand?

37. Is a warning triangle required in cars in New Zealand?

✓ No.
Yes.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a warning triangle.

Warning triangle carried as vehicle safety equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

38. What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

✓ Stop if required, check carefully, and cross only when safe.
Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.
Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.
Maintain your speed if the tracks look clear.

Approach railway crossings carefully, obey any requirement to stop and any warning signals or barriers, and cross only when it is safe.

Railway crossing without barriers
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if someone is injured in a road collision?

39. What should you do if someone is injured in a road collision?

Help them stand up and check whether they can walk.
✓ Call for help and avoid moving them unless there is immediate danger.
Move them to a more comfortable position immediately.
Give them food or drink while waiting for help.

Moving an injured person can worsen spinal or other injuries. Keep them calm, protect them from further danger, and provide first aid only within your level of training.

Assistance for an injured person after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if medicine makes you feel drowsy?

40. What should you do if medicine makes you feel drowsy?

Open a window to stay alert.
Drink coffee before driving.
Drive only for short distances.
✓ Do not drive until the effect has passed.

If a medicine causes drowsiness, your concentration, judgement, and reaction time may be reduced. Do not drive until you are fit to do so and the effect has passed.

Drowsiness after taking medicine
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

41. Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

✓ To improve visibility and help other road users see you.
To reduce fuel consumption.
To prevent the tunnel lights from becoming too bright.
To keep the windscreen from misting.

Tunnel lighting may be much darker than daylight. Dipped headlights help you see and make your vehicle more visible.

Vehicle using dipped headlights before entering a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

42. Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

They determine how brightly the lights work.
They mainly affect the engine temperature.
✓ They directly affect grip, stability, and braking.
They matter only when carrying a passenger.

A motorcycle relies on a relatively small area of tyre contact with the road. Correct tyre pressure, tread and condition are important for grip, steering, stability and braking. Check the tyres regularly and follow the manufacturer's recommended pressures.

Checking the condition of a motorcycle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Is a first-aid kit required in cars in New Zealand?

43. Is a first-aid kit required in cars in New Zealand?

✓ No.
Yes.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a first-aid kit.

First-aid kit carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

44. Why should you avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

✓ A pedestrian may be hidden by the vehicle ahead.
The road surface is usually more slippery near crossings.
The crossing may make it harder to judge your speed.
Crossing markings can make lane changes more difficult.

A vehicle slowing or stopping near a pedestrian crossing may be hiding someone who is crossing. Overtaking could put you directly into the pedestrian's path.

Vehicles approaching a pedestrian crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

45. What should you do about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

✓ Move to a protected location if possible and call for professional recovery.
Repair the tyre beside the traffic lane using hazard lights.
Ask passengers to help change the wheel quickly.
Stop immediately and change the tyre where you are.

Changing a wheel close to high-speed traffic is extremely dangerous. Move away from traffic and use professional assistance.

Vehicle stopped with a flat tyre on a high-speed road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

46. How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

It affects reaction distance but not braking distance.
✓ It increases the distance needed to stop.
It has no effect if the brakes are in good condition.
It decreases the distance needed to stop.

As speed increases, the vehicle travels farther while the driver reacts and requires more distance to brake. This means the total stopping distance increases significantly as speed rises.

Vehicle speed and the distance needed to stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

47. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

✓ They can provide much less grip than the surrounding road.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
They can make the suspension become stiffer.
They can make the tyres overheat.

Wet metal surfaces, such as drain or inspection covers, can provide much less grip than the surrounding road. Cross them smoothly, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering.

Wet metal cover in a motorcycle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can drivers use a handheld phone while driving in New Zealand?

48. Can drivers use a handheld phone while driving in New Zealand?

Yes.
✓ No.

Drivers in New Zealand are generally not allowed to use a handheld phone while driving.

Driver using a handheld phone
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

49. Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

Roadworks switch off anti-lock braking.
✓ Loose gravel, mud, or uneven material may reduce tyre grip.
Temporary roads always slope downhill.
Temporary surfaces make the brakes colder.

Temporary surfaces may provide less grip than normal asphalt. Reduce speed and allow more distance for braking.

Loose or uneven road surface through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

50. What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

Accelerate so you spend less time at the junction.
Watch only the traffic directly ahead of you.
Rely on other road users to give way to you.
✓ Reduce speed, observe carefully, and be ready to stop.

Junctions create conflict points between road users. Slowing down gives you more time to see hazards and react safely.

Cyclist approaching a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA