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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.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
New Zealand
True/false 17 New Zealand 28 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 595
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

151. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Headlight flash.
Parking assistance.
✓ Horn.
Hazard warning lights.

This symbol indicates the horn control. The horn is used to warn other road users of your presence when necessary.

Vehicle horn control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

152. What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

Stop only if another warning light appears.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Continue slowly if the vehicle still responds normally.
Ignore the noise if the warning light later goes out.

A red warning combined with an unusual noise may indicate a serious fault. Continuing could cause damage or loss of control.

Red dashboard warning requiring the driver's attention
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when livestock are on the road?

153. What should you do when livestock are on the road?

Sound the horn so the animals move aside.
✓ Slow down and follow the instructions of the person controlling them.
Follow closely so other traffic can overtake.
Drive through the group before it spreads across the road.

Livestock may spread across the road, stop suddenly, or change direction without warning. Slow down, keep a safe distance, avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and follow any instructions from the person controlling the animals.

Livestock being moved along a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

154. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Windscreen demister active.
Low coolant level.
✓ Low windscreen washer fluid.
Low tyre pressure.

This symbol indicates that the windscreen washer fluid level is low. Refill the washer-fluid reservoir with suitable fluid when possible.

Low washer-fluid warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are reversing and making a U-turn on a motorway extremely dangerous?

155. Why are reversing and making a U-turn on a motorway extremely dangerous?

The steering may become heavier while turning around.
The vehicle may use more fuel during the manoeuvre.
✓ Other drivers approach quickly and do not expect traffic facing them.
The speedometer may become less accurate.

Motorway traffic travels at high speed. Unexpected reversing or turning can cause a severe collision.

Vehicle on a motorway hard shoulder
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

156. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

True.
✓ False.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you switch off your fog lights?

157. When should you switch off your fog lights?

Whenever you stop at a traffic light.
Only after the journey is finished.
Never, because they always improve visibility.
✓ When visibility improves and they are no longer needed.

Fog lights can dazzle other road users when visibility is normal, so switch them off when conditions improve.

Fog-light control as visibility improves
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand?

158. What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand?

1.6 mm.
1.0 mm.
✓ 1.5 mm.
2.0 mm.

The general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand is 1.5 mm. Higher minimums may apply to winter tyres, during winter periods or in winter conditions.

Measuring tread depth on a vehicle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

159. Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
Both feet together.
Either foot at the same time.

In an automatic vehicle, the right foot should normally operate both the brake and accelerator pedals. The left foot should rest on the footrest to reduce the risk of pressing both pedals at the same time.

Right-foot control of an automatic vehicle's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

160. What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

For driving when the motorway is busy.
For stopping to check directions.
For allowing faster vehicles to pass.
✓ For emergencies and breakdowns.

A motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder is primarily intended for emergencies and breakdowns, not normal driving. In some places it may be opened temporarily as a traffic lane when signs or signals specifically permit this.

Motorway hard shoulder beside the traffic lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

161. What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

Stand close behind it so the driver can see you.
Cross behind it once the driver looks forward.
✓ Stay clear and make sure the driver can see you.
Walk behind it if it is reversing slowly.

Reversing vehicles have blind spots. Stay away from the vehicle and make sure the driver can see you.

Pedestrian near a reversing vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

162. Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

✓ Vehicles behind may not have time to react.
It prevents the brake lights from working properly.
It makes the brakes less effective afterwards.
It causes the tyres to lose pressure.

Sudden braking can surprise drivers behind you and increase the risk of a rear-end collision.

Following traffic and the risk of sudden braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

163. Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

✓ The stand may sink into the ground and the motorcycle could fall.
The tyres may immediately lose air pressure.
The chain may become too tight.
The brakes may lock while the motorcycle is parked.

On soft or unstable ground, the side or centre stand can sink or move, causing the motorcycle to fall. Park on a firm, stable surface or use a suitable support under the stand when necessary.

Motorcycle stand resting on soft ground
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

164. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

Drive closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.
Use main beam to improve visibility.
Accelerate through the rain to clear it more quickly.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

165. What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

Sound your horn and enter the junction.
✓ Slow down and proceed carefully.
Drive through quickly before other traffic appears.
Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.

If your view is blocked, slow down and make sure the way is clear before entering the junction.

Restricted view of approaching traffic at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid keeping the clutch pedal pressed while driving?

166. Why should you avoid keeping the clutch pedal pressed while driving?

It applies the parking brake.
It increases tyre pressure.
✓ It reduces engine braking and vehicle control.
It locks the steering.

Keeping the clutch pedal pressed while the vehicle is moving disconnects the engine from the transmission. This reduces engine braking and can reduce your control of the vehicle.

Clutch held down while a vehicle is moving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you approach a sharp bend on a mountain road?

167. How should you approach a sharp bend on a mountain road?

Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.
Overtake just before entering the bend.
Brake hard while turning through the bend.
✓ Reduce speed before the bend and remain in your lane.

Mountain bends may hide oncoming vehicles, cyclists, animals, or debris. Slow down before entering and keep a safe road position.

Sharp bend on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should happen after an airbag has deployed?

168. What should happen after an airbag has deployed?

The airbag can be reused if it is not torn.
✓ The restraint system should be professionally inspected and repaired.
The airbag can be folded back into the dashboard.
Only the airbag warning light needs to be reset.

A deployed airbag is a single-use safety component. After deployment, the restraint system should be professionally inspected and the airbag and any other affected components replaced or repaired as required before the system is relied upon again.

Deployed airbag inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

169. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

They can make the brakes overheat.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
✓ They can provide less grip than the surrounding road.
They can prevent the indicators from working.

Wet painted road markings can provide less grip than the surrounding road surface. Ride smoothly over them and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering that could cause the tyres to lose grip.

Motorcycle approaching wet painted road markings
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

170. How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

✓ Securely, within load limits, without blocking visibility or lights.
Loosely in the boot so it can move a little.
Where it is easiest to reach while driving.
Anywhere, as long as the vehicle is not overloaded.

Unsecured or overloaded cargo can affect steering and braking, injure occupants during sudden stops, or fall into the road. It must not obstruct the driver's view or vehicle lights.

Luggage and cargo carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

171. Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

P (Park).
✓ R (Reverse).
D (Drive).
N (Neutral).

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive the vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before selecting Reverse.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

172. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

173. What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

✓ Reduce speed and have the tyres, wheels, and steering checked.
Keep driving if the vehicle still steers normally.
Reduce the tyre pressure slightly to smooth the ride.
Increase speed until the vibration becomes less noticeable.

An unusual vibration may indicate tyre damage, wheel imbalance, loose components, or another mechanical fault. Reduce speed and arrange an inspection.

Driver experiencing vibration through the steering wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

174. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

They are recommendations rather than limits.
They apply only to road workers.
✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.
They can be ignored when the road looks clear.

Temporary speed limits may be used near roadworks, accidents, events, or dangerous conditions. They help keep traffic safe.

Temporary speed-limit sign at roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Must cars carry equipment for dealing with a puncture in New Zealand?

175. Must cars carry equipment for dealing with a puncture in New Zealand?

✓ No.
Yes.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a spare wheel or tyre repair kit.

Vehicle equipment for dealing with a puncture
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

176. Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

Reversing can interfere with the tunnel lighting.
Tunnel ventilation works only in the normal direction of travel.
✓ It can cause a serious collision with approaching traffic.
A U-turn can confuse the tunnel's traffic monitoring system.

Other drivers may not expect a vehicle to reverse or turn around. Only change direction when instructed by police or tunnel staff.

Vehicle manoeuvring inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may ignore a stop sign if the road looks empty.

177. You may ignore a stop sign if the road looks empty.

✓ False.
True.

A stop sign means you must come to a complete stop, even if no other traffic is visible.

Stop sign at a quiet junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

178. Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

✓ You may lose control or collide with another road user.
Small animals have fast reaction times.
The tyres can be damaged by sudden steering.
Small animals usually move away before you reach them.

A sudden swerve can take you into another lane, off the road, or into nearby traffic.

Small animal in the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

179. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.
Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
Continue if the barriers are not fully closed.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

180. You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

✓ False.
True.

You should keep a safe following distance so you have enough time to react if traffic slows or stops suddenly.

Vehicle following closely behind another vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

181. What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

Drive closer so they notice your presence.
Use your horn repeatedly to express your frustration.
Keep your course and expect them to correct their mistake.
✓ Stay calm and avoid creating more danger.

Road users can make mistakes. Staying calm and reacting safely helps prevent crashes.

Driver responding to another road user's mistake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

182. What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

Turns the starter motor.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Locks the steering.
Switches off all electrical accessories.

The ON position normally switches on the vehicle's electrical and ignition systems without operating the starter motor. The engine is started by turning the key further to the START position.

ON position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

183. What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

Wave your arms to frighten the birds away.
Stop near the nest to see why they are swooping.
Throw objects towards the birds.
✓ Slow down, stay calm, and leave the area without provoking them.

Some birds become territorial during the breeding season and may swoop people near their nests. Stay calm, avoid provoking or approaching the birds, and leave the area safely. If necessary and safe, dismount and walk your bicycle through or away from the area while keeping your helmet on.

Bird swooping near a cyclist
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic beyond a railway crossing is blocked?

184. What should you do if traffic beyond a railway crossing is blocked?

Cross quickly before the warning signals activate.
Enter the crossing and wait for traffic to move.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the tracks completely.
Stop on the tracks if no train is visible.

Never enter a railway crossing unless you can clear the tracks completely. If traffic ahead is blocked, wait before the crossing so you cannot become trapped on the railway.

Congested traffic beyond a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of a pedestrian crossing?

185. What is the purpose of a pedestrian crossing?

To give pedestrians priority throughout the whole street.
To provide a place where vehicles may stop temporarily.
✓ To help pedestrians cross the road safely.
To separate pedestrians from cyclists along the road.

Pedestrian crossings provide a designated place where people can safely cross the road.

Pedestrian crossing across a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

186. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Cruise control.
Power-steering warning.
Speed limiter.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

187. How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

Brake sharply once you are close to stopping.
Use only one brake to avoid skidding.
Brake normally because wet roads do not affect grip.
✓ Brake earlier and more gradually than usual.

Wet surfaces reduce grip and increase stopping distance. Smooth, early braking helps prevent skidding.

Cyclist braking on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

188. What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

Cross the painted separation area back to the exit.
Use an emergency opening in the central reservation.
Turn around if traffic is light enough.
✓ Continue to the next exit.

Never reverse or make a sudden manoeuvre. Continue safely and change your route at the next suitable exit.

Vehicle continuing past a motorway exit
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

189. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Four-wheel-drive system.
Parking assistance.
Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system, which can transmit power to all four wheels. The exact symbol and operating modes vary between vehicles.

Four-wheel-drive system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

190. How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

They clear water from the road more effectively.
✓ They increase the risk of aquaplaning.
They reduce the chance of skidding at low speeds.
They make steering more responsive in heavy rain.

Tyre tread helps channel water away and maintain grip. Worn tyres cannot clear water as effectively, increasing stopping distance and the risk of aquaplaning.

Worn tyre tread and wet-road grip
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

191. How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

By heating the rear window directly.
By opening the windows automatically.
By increasing air recirculation.
✓ By removing moisture from the air.

Using the air conditioning can help demist the windows because it removes moisture from the cabin air. Directing this drier air towards the windscreen can clear condensation more quickly.

Air-conditioning controls used to demist the windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

192. Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

It reduces tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
It keeps the trailer more stable in strong winds.
It improves braking on steep roads.
✓ It can reduce stability and place excessive strain on the vehicle.

Overloading can affect braking, steering, tyres, suspension, and trailer stability. Always remain within permitted limits. After loading, check that the load is secure and correctly distributed before starting your journey.

Loaded trailer and towing limits
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which pedal is used to increase the vehicle's speed?

193. Which pedal is used to increase the vehicle's speed?

The clutch pedal.
✓ The accelerator pedal.
The footrest.
The brake pedal.

The accelerator pedal controls the amount of power delivered by the engine and is used to increase or maintain the vehicle's speed. It is the right-hand pedal.

Accelerator pedal in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

194. Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

The left foot for the brake and right foot for the accelerator.
✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
Either foot.

In a manual vehicle, the right foot normally operates both the brake and accelerator pedals, while the left foot operates the clutch.

Pedal arrangement and foot controls in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

195. When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

Before the rider has balanced the motorcycle.
✓ When the motorcycle is stationary and the rider is ready.
While the motorcycle is moving slowly.
Whenever the passenger feels ready.

A passenger getting on or off can shift the motorcycle's balance suddenly. The motorcycle should be stationary and stable, and the passenger should wait until the rider is ready and prepared to support the extra movement.

Passenger getting onto a stationary motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

196. Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

It can make the steering feel heavier.
It can increase tyre pressure during the turn.
It can make the vehicle accelerate more slowly afterwards.
✓ It can reduce control and increase the risk of skidding.

Hard braking on a curve can upset the vehicle's balance and reduce grip. Slow down before the curve and steer smoothly.

Vehicle braking while negotiating a bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

197. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Electronic stability control.
Anti-lock braking system.

This symbol relates to the electronic stability control (ESC) system. It may flash when the system is actively helping to maintain stability. If it remains illuminated, the system may be switched off or have a fault.

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

198. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Bonnet release.
Window lock.
✓ Boot or tailgate release.
Central door locking.

This symbol indicates the boot or tailgate release. Operating the control unlocks or opens the luggage compartment, depending on the vehicle.

Boot or tailgate release control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking a slow-moving vehicle?

199. What should you do before overtaking a slow-moving vehicle?

Move closer before checking whether the road ahead is clear.
Follow another vehicle that starts overtaking ahead of you.
✓ Check that the road ahead is clear and that overtaking is safe.
Signal first and then check whether there is enough space.

Before overtaking, make sure you have enough visibility, space, and time. Signal clearly before moving out, do not exceed the speed limit, and never overtake if the road ahead is not clear.

Vehicle preparing to pass slow-moving traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

200. What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

The wheels automatically straighten.
The steering becomes lighter.
✓ The steering lock may engage.
The power steering remains fully active.

On vehicles fitted with a steering lock, removing the ignition key may allow the steering lock to engage. Never remove the key while the vehicle is moving.

Ignition key and vehicle steering lock
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA