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QuizTraffic rulesNew Zealand

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

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
Why should you avoid travelling with the seatback excessively reclined?

251. Why should you avoid travelling with the seatback excessively reclined?

It can prevent the head restraint from being adjusted.
It can cause the seat belt to lock during normal driving.
✓ It can reduce how effectively the seat belt restrains you.
It can cause the seat to slide forwards when braking.

An excessively reclined seat can affect how the seat belt fits and restrains your body and may increase the risk of sliding under the lap belt in a collision. Sit in a reasonably upright position so the lap belt stays low across the hips and the shoulder belt lies correctly across the chest.

Vehicle seat with an excessively reclined backrest
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

252. What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

Check only the bicycle and ignore minor injuries.
Test the bicycle by riding it before checking for damage.
Check only the parts that were directly involved in the fall.
✓ Check yourself and inspect the bicycle before riding again.

A fall can damage the brakes, wheels, frame, handlebars, or helmet. Injuries may also not be immediately obvious.

Checking a bicycle after a fall or collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a seat belt is frayed or damaged?

253. What should you do if a seat belt is frayed or damaged?

Twist the damaged section so it cannot tear further.
Wear the belt loosely to reduce strain on it.
Cover the damaged section and continue using it.
✓ Have it inspected and replaced before relying on it.

A damaged seat belt may not provide proper protection in a collision. Frayed webbing, damaged buckles, faulty retractors, or other defects should be professionally inspected and repaired or replaced before the seat belt is relied upon.

Frayed or damaged seat-belt webbing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists cross railway or tram tracks?

254. How should cyclists cross railway or tram tracks?

Keep the wheels parallel with the rails while crossing.
✓ Cross at a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as possible.
Increase speed so the wheels cannot get caught.
Follow the rails briefly before crossing them.

A bicycle wheel can become trapped in a rail groove. Crossing at a wider angle reduces this risk.

Cyclist crossing rails in the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

255. How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

It makes the vehicle more stable in bends.
✓ It can raise the centre of gravity and reduce stability.
It reduces the effect of strong crosswinds.
It affects only fuel consumption, not handling.

Weight carried high on the vehicle can increase body movement and make sudden steering or cornering less stable.

Vehicle carrying a raised roof load
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

256. What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

Select neutral and release all pedals.
✓ Make sure the vehicle is securely controlled before releasing it.
Turn the steering wheel fully.
Press the accelerator fully.

Before releasing the parking brake on a slope, make sure the vehicle cannot roll unexpectedly. Use the service brake or, when moving off in a manual vehicle, establish the clutch biting point and sufficient power before releasing the parking brake.

Preparing to release the parking brake on a slope
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

257. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Front windscreen demister.
Air conditioning.
Air recirculation.
Rear window demister.

This symbol indicates the front windscreen demister. It directs airflow towards the windscreen to help clear condensation, mist or frost and restore a clear view.

Front windscreen demister symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking another vehicle?

258. What should you do before overtaking another vehicle?

Move out first and check whether the road is clear.
Signal and expect other traffic to make room.
✓ Make sure it is safe and allowed.
Drive close behind before starting the overtake.

Before overtaking, check the road, mirrors, blind spots, signs, and markings, use your indicator, and only overtake when it is safe and permitted.

Vehicle preparing to overtake another vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should loose items inside a vehicle be secured?

259. Why should loose items inside a vehicle be secured?

They can make the engine overheat.
They can interfere with the vehicle's exterior lights.
They can reduce tyre pressure while driving.
✓ They can become dangerous projectiles during sudden braking or a collision.

Loose objects can move or be thrown forwards during sudden braking or a collision. Secure luggage and other items so they cannot injure occupants or interfere with the driver or vehicle controls.

Loose luggage and objects inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

260. What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.
Maintain speed if no traffic is visible.
✓ Slow down and be prepared for hidden hazards.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely for guidance.

A hill crest can hide vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles. Reduce speed and stay in your lane.

Vehicle approaching the crest of a hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

261. What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

The following distance.
The engine idle speed.
The transmission gear.
✓ The selected maximum speed.

When the speed limiter is active, the + and − controls normally increase or decrease the selected maximum speed. The exact adjustment steps can vary between vehicles.

Plus and minus controls for the speed limiter
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check after fitting a wheel?

262. What should you check after fitting a wheel?

That the tyre is touching the wheel arch.
That the wheel nuts are covered by the trim.
✓ That the wheel nuts are tightened correctly.
That the wheel can move slightly on the hub.

After fitting a wheel, make sure the wheel nuts are tightened correctly using the manufacturer's specified procedure and torque. Incorrectly tightened wheel nuts can loosen or damage the wheel. Recheck them later if the vehicle or wheel manufacturer recommends it.

Checking wheel nuts after fitting a wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

263. What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

✓ Reduce speed, increase following distance, and drive gently.
Drive at the normal speed limit if the road looks clear.
Brake firmly in bends to keep control.
Follow other vehicles closely in their tyre tracks.

Snow and ice greatly reduce tyre grip. Lower speed, extra distance, and gentle steering, braking, and acceleration help maintain control.

Vehicle travelling on a snow-covered road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

264. How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

Press the accelerator pedal.
✓ Move the gear lever gently from side to side.
Pull up the parking brake.
Turn the steering wheel.

When a manual gearbox is in neutral, the gear lever can normally be moved freely from side to side across the centre of the gear pattern. Check that neutral is selected before starting the engine when appropriate.

Checking neutral with a manual gear lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main emergency number in New Zealand?

265. What is the main emergency number in New Zealand?

999.
911.
000.
✓ 111.

The main emergency number in New Zealand is 111.

111 emergency telephone number
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

266. Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

To check whether the road surface is slippery.
To decide which gear to use while slowing down.
To check whether your brake lights are working.
✓ To know what is happening behind you.

Checking your mirrors helps you understand what is happening behind you and anticipate how following traffic may react. In an emergency, do not delay necessary braking.

Driver checking following traffic before braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

267. Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

Driving through deep water is always prohibited.
✓ It can damage your vehicle or make you lose control.
Deep water makes the engine use too much oil.
Water causes the tyres to lose air pressure.

Deep water can damage the engine, reduce braking ability, hide hazards, or cause the vehicle to lose grip. Reduce speed, assess the depth and conditions carefully, and avoid entering the water if you are unsure it is safe. If necessary, stop and use another route.

Deep water covering part of a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

268. You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

False.
✓ True.

Distractions reduce awareness and reaction time, making driving more dangerous.

Driver keeping attention on the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally select before leaving an automatic vehicle parked?

269. What should you normally select before leaving an automatic vehicle parked?

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

Select P (Park) before leaving an automatic vehicle parked. Park locks the transmission to help prevent the vehicle from rolling; the parking brake should also be applied.

Park position on an automatic gear selector
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you brake on a slippery road?

270. How should you brake on a slippery road?

Use the parking brake to help slow the vehicle.
✓ Brake gently and progressively.
Brake harder than usual to shorten the stopping distance.
Steer sharply while braking to avoid slippery areas.

Sudden braking can cause the wheels to lose grip. Smooth, progressive braking reduces the risk of skidding.

Braking on a slippery road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid sudden steering movements on snow or ice?

271. Why should you avoid sudden steering movements on snow or ice?

They make the tyres wear more quickly.
They reduce the effectiveness of the headlights.
✓ They can cause the tyres to lose grip and the vehicle to skid.
They increase fuel consumption.

Abrupt steering can overwhelm the limited grip available on a slippery surface. Steering smoothly helps keep the vehicle stable.

Steering a vehicle on a snowy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which control is normally used to switch between dipped and main beam headlights?

272. Which control is normally used to switch between dipped and main beam headlights?

✓ The lighting stalk.
The windscreen-wiper stalk.
The dashboard brightness control.
The hazard warning switch.

The lighting stalk is normally used to switch between dipped and main beam headlights. The exact movement varies between vehicles, so check the vehicle controls before driving.

Lighting stalk for switching between dipped and main beam
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

273. What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

Use your foot to push it towards the passenger side.
✓ Keep control and stop safely before retrieving it.
Keep driving unless the object touches a pedal.
Reach down and remove it while continuing to drive.

Do not reach down for an object while driving, as this takes your attention away from the road and can affect vehicle control. If something falls into the driver's footwell, keep control of the vehicle and stop somewhere safe before removing it.

Dropped object close to the driver's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

274. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-pad wear warning.
✓ Anti-lock braking system warning.
Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol indicates a possible fault with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Normal braking may still be available, but ABS may not operate during heavy braking, so the system should be checked.

Anti-lock braking system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

275. What should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

✓ Control your speed and keep both hands ready to brake.
Brake as late as possible before bends.
Look only at the road directly in front of you.
Let the bicycle gain speed while the road ahead is clear.

Higher speed increases stopping distance and reduces reaction time. Maintain a speed that allows you to stop safely.

Cyclist riding down a hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

276. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Window lock.
Boot release.
Mirror adjustment.
✓ Child safety lock.

This control activates the child safety lock. It helps prevent a rear door from being opened from inside the vehicle, depending on the vehicle and system design.

Child safety lock control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do in strong crosswinds?

277. What should a motorcyclist do in strong crosswinds?

Ride as close to the edge of the road as possible.
Follow a large vehicle closely for protection from the wind.
Make sudden steering movements whenever the wind changes.
✓ Reduce speed and be prepared for sudden gusts.

Strong crosswinds can push a motorcycle sideways and sudden gusts can affect its stability. Reduce speed, keep a steady grip on the handlebars and allow extra space, especially on exposed roads, bridges, or when passing gaps and large vehicles.

Motorcyclist riding in strong crosswinds
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally do?

278. What does pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally do?

Activate the hazard warning lights.
Switch on the front fog lights.
✓ Flash the main-beam headlights.
Switch on the dipped headlights.

Pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally flashes the main-beam headlights. This briefly illuminates the main beam while the stalk is held or operated.

Lighting stalk used to flash the main-beam headlights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

279. What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

The amount of washer fluid sprayed.
✓ The time between wiper sweeps.
The brightness of the dashboard.
The speed of the rear wiper.

The intermittent wiper interval control adjusts the time between windscreen-wiper sweeps, allowing the driver to match the wiping frequency to light rain or spray.

Interval adjustment for intermittent windscreen wiping
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

280. What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

✓ Select P or N and press the brake pedal.
Leave the selector between two positions.
Select R and release the parking brake.
Select D and press the accelerator.

Before starting an automatic vehicle, make sure P (Park) or N (Neutral) is selected and press the brake pedal. Many automatic vehicles will only allow the engine to start when these conditions are met.

Gear selector and brake before starting an automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Rain can reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distance.

281. Rain can reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distance.

False.
✓ True.

Wet roads reduce traction, so your vehicle may need more distance to stop safely.

Vehicle travelling on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

282. Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

It makes your steering less responsive.
✓ You may not have enough time to stop.
It causes the vehicle ahead to use more fuel.
It makes your headlights less effective.

Driving too close, or tailgating, reduces the time and space available to react and increases the risk of a rear-end collision. Use defensive driving and keep a safe following distance.

Vehicle tailgating the traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before selecting D or R in an automatic vehicle?

283. What should you normally do before selecting D or R in an automatic vehicle?

Press the accelerator pedal.
Apply the parking brake only.
Switch off the engine.
✓ Press and hold the brake pedal.

Before selecting D (Drive) or R (Reverse), keep the brake pedal pressed to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly when the gear is engaged.

Holding the brake before selecting an automatic driving gear
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

284. What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

✓ Greater engine braking.
Higher tyre pressure.
Automatic parking-brake operation.
A shorter steering ratio.

Selecting a suitable lower gear can increase engine braking, helping the vehicle slow or control its speed without relying entirely on the brakes.

Manual gear selection for engine braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you look well ahead while driving?

285. Why should you look well ahead while driving?

To follow the vehicle ahead more closely.
To concentrate only on traffic in your lane.
✓ To identify developing hazards early and gain more time to react.
To avoid checking your mirrors as often.

Looking well ahead helps you identify developing hazards early, such as slowing traffic, pedestrians, junctions, or changing road conditions. Earlier detection gives you more time to assess the situation and respond smoothly and safely.

Driver observing the road and traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

286. What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

✓ The brakes may overheat and become less effective.
The brakes will automatically cool while being used.
Nothing, if the brake fluid level is correct.
The brakes may become more effective as they heat up.

Continuous braking can cause the brakes to overheat and fade, reducing braking performance. Use a lower gear to help control speed with engine braking.

Vehicle braking during a long descent
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving near a school area?

287. What should you do when driving near a school area?

Watch only for children already on the road.
Use your horn so children stay away from traffic.
✓ Slow down and watch carefully for children.
Maintain your usual speed if the road looks clear.

Children near schools may cross unexpectedly or be hidden between parked vehicles. Reduce speed and be ready to stop.

Vehicle travelling near a school
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

288. Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

Level with the shoulders.
✓ Approximately level with the top of the head.
As low as possible.
Behind the neck only.

The head restraint should normally be adjusted so that its top is approximately level with the top of the head. This helps reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.

Adjusting the head restraint to head height
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

289. Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

1st gear.
✓ R (Reverse).
Neutral.
2nd gear.

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive a manual vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before Reverse is selected.

Manual gear lever and gear-selection pattern
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when riding over loose gravel or road debris?

290. What should cyclists do when riding over loose gravel or road debris?

✓ Reduce speed and steer smoothly.
Make quick steering movements to avoid loose stones.
Brake hard while turning.
Accelerate to keep the bicycle stable.

Loose material reduces tyre grip. Smooth steering and controlled speed lower the chance of losing balance.

Cyclist riding over loose gravel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

291. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Cabin fan speed.
Air conditioning.
Air recirculation.
Windscreen demisting.

This control adjusts the cabin ventilation fan speed. Increasing the setting moves more air through the vehicle's ventilation and climate-control system.

Control for adjusting the cabin fan speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the legal blood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers in New Zealand?

292. What is the legal blood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers in New Zealand?

0.0 g/L.
0.2 g/L.
0.8 g/L.
✓ 0.5 g/L.

The legal blood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers in New Zealand is 0.5 g/L.

Alcohol limits for ordinary drivers
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

293. What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

Speed up slightly so they can merge behind you.
Move closer to the vehicle ahead to keep your lane clear.
Move into another lane without checking around you.
✓ Adjust your speed and leave space when safe.

When traffic merges, good observation and speed control help vehicles join safely without sudden braking or conflict.

Vehicle merging from an adjacent lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should pets be carried safely in a vehicle?

294. How should pets be carried safely in a vehicle?

On the driver's lap if they remain calm.
Free to move around during short journeys.
Beside an open window so they can see outside.
✓ Securely restrained so they cannot distract the driver or move dangerously.

A pet moving freely inside a vehicle can distract the driver and may be thrown around during sudden braking or a collision. Use a suitable carrier, harness, barrier, or other secure restraint appropriate for the animal and vehicle.

Pet travelling inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an emergency vehicle approaches with lights or siren on?

295. What should you do if an emergency vehicle approaches with lights or siren on?

Move aside without checking surrounding traffic.
Ignore it if there is not enough room to pass.
Speed up so the vehicle can follow you.
✓ Stay calm and make room safely.

When an emergency vehicle uses lights or siren, check your surroundings and make room safely without sudden or dangerous movements.

Emergency vehicle approaching with warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

296. How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

It releases the clutch.
✓ It can prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
It selects a lower gear automatically.
It increases engine power.

When moving off uphill, the parking brake can hold the vehicle stationary while you prepare to move. Release it smoothly once the clutch reaches the biting point and sufficient power is applied.

Parking-brake control during an uphill start
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never leave a child or pet alone in a parked vehicle on a warm day?

297. Why should you never leave a child or pet alone in a parked vehicle on a warm day?

✓ The interior can heat up quickly and cause serious heat illness.
The vehicle battery may discharge more quickly.
The tyres may lose pressure while the vehicle is parked.
The alarm system may activate unexpectedly.

The inside of a parked vehicle can heat up rapidly, even when the outside temperature does not feel extreme. Children and animals are particularly vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke. Leaving a window partly open does not make the vehicle safe.

Parked vehicle and the danger of interior heat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

298. Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

✓ No, passengers should travel in approved seating positions.
Yes, if the passengers remain seated on the floor.
Yes, if the trailer is travelling at low speed.
Only on short journeys or quiet roads.

An ordinary goods trailer is not designed to carry passengers and normally has no suitable seats or restraint systems. Passengers should travel in seating positions designed and approved for carrying people. Special passenger-carrying trailers may be subject to different local rules.

Ordinary goods trailer and passenger safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

299. Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

Only when driving outside built-up areas.
Yes, if the road ahead appears clear.
Yes, if your vehicle is in good condition.
✓ No, you may need to drive more slowly for the conditions.

A speed limit is a maximum permitted speed, not a target. You may need to drive more slowly because of traffic, poor visibility, weather, road conditions, pedestrians, cyclists, or other hazards.

Speed-limit sign and changing road conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are bicycle lights required at night in New Zealand?

300. Are bicycle lights required at night in New Zealand?

✓ Yes.
No.

Cyclists in New Zealand are generally required to use bicycle lights at night.

Bicycle lights used at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA