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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
What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

301. What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

Apply it only on a slope.
✓ Apply it securely.
Leave it partly applied.
Release it completely.

Before leaving a parked vehicle, apply the parking brake securely to help prevent unintended movement. Also select the appropriate gear or transmission position for parking.

Securing a parked vehicle with the parking brake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do when approaching loose gravel?

302. What should a motorcyclist do when approaching loose gravel?

Brake hard while riding over it.
Lean the motorcycle more than usual.
✓ Reduce speed before reaching it and use smooth controls.
Turn suddenly to avoid every loose stone.

Loose gravel can significantly reduce tyre grip. Reduce speed before reaching it, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing the loose surface.

Motorcyclist approaching loose gravel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you reduce speed in fog?

303. Why should you reduce speed in fog?

To prevent the windscreen from misting.
To reduce vehicle emissions.
To prevent moisture from entering the engine.
✓ Because you have less time to react to hazards you cannot see.

Fog can hide obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Lower speed gives you more time to react.

Fog limiting a driver's view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

304. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Boot release.
✓ Central door locking.
Window lock.
Mirror adjustment.

This control operates the vehicle's central door locking system. Pressing it locks or unlocks the vehicle's doors, depending on the current lock state.

Central door-locking control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

305. What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

Drive closely beside the bus to prevent it moving out.
Sound your horn so the bus waits for you.
✓ Slow down and be prepared to let it move out when safe.
Accelerate and pass before the bus moves out.

Buses may pull away after picking up passengers. Slow down, check the traffic situation, and allow space when it is safe.

Bus signalling to pull away from a stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are moped riders generally required to wear a helmet in New Zealand?

306. Are moped riders generally required to wear a helmet in New Zealand?

✓ Yes.
No.

Moped riders in New Zealand are generally required to wear an approved helmet.

Moped rider wearing a helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

307. What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

Continue slowly until you reach a service station.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Add engine oil while the engine is still running.
Increase the engine speed until the light goes out.

Low oil pressure can quickly cause severe engine damage. Stop as soon as it is safe, switch off the engine, and investigate the cause before continuing.

Oil-pressure warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

308. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Front fog lights.
Rear fog lights.
Sidelights.
✓ Dipped headlights.

This symbol indicates that the dipped headlights are switched on. Dipped headlights illuminate the road ahead while limiting glare for other road users.

Dipped-headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

309. Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

✓ You may not hear traffic or warning sounds.
It makes the bicycle harder to balance.
It reduces the grip of the tyres.
It makes the brakes respond more slowly.

Hearing approaching vehicles, bells, horns, and other warning sounds is an important part of staying aware.

Cyclist listening to music near traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you hold the steering wheel firmly during strong gusts?

310. Why should you hold the steering wheel firmly during strong gusts?

To reduce braking distance.
To improve tyre grip.
✓ To maintain control if the vehicle is pushed.
To keep the suspension level.

A firm but relaxed grip helps you respond safely to sudden changes caused by wind.

Driver holding the steering wheel during strong gusts
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you consider before selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle?

311. What should you consider before selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle?

✓ Whether the vehicle's speed is suitable for the lower gear.
Whether the headlights are switched on.
Whether the steering wheel is centred.
Whether the parking brake is applied.

Before selecting a lower gear, make sure the vehicle's speed is suitable for that gear. Selecting too low a gear at excessive speed can cause harsh engine braking and place unnecessary stress on the drivetrain.

Selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

312. Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

To reduce the vehicle's stopping distance.
To make blind spots disappear completely.
To improve the grip of the tyres.
✓ To maintain good control and a clear view around the vehicle.

A correct driving position helps you operate the pedals and steering comfortably and maintain proper control. Correctly adjusted mirrors improve your view around the vehicle and help reduce blind spots. Adjust both before starting your journey.

Adjusting the driving position and mirrors before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the windscreen washer reservoir contain suitable washer fluid?

313. Why should the windscreen washer reservoir contain suitable washer fluid?

Plain water always cleans the windscreen just as well.
✓ It helps remove dirt, salt, insects, and spray from the windscreen.
Any household cleaning product can be used instead.
Washer fluid is needed only in freezing weather.

A clear windscreen is essential for safe observation. Suitable washer fluid helps clean the glass and may provide protection against freezing in cold conditions.

Windscreen washer-fluid reservoir in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

314. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Rear fog lights.
Main beam.
Front fog lights.
Dipped headlights.

This symbol indicates that the rear fog lights are switched on. Rear fog lights make the vehicle more visible from behind in conditions of severely reduced visibility, but they can dazzle other road users when used unnecessarily.

Rear fog-light symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before a long journey to reduce the risk of driver fatigue?

315. What should you do before a long journey to reduce the risk of driver fatigue?

✓ Get enough sleep before starting the journey.
Drink several energy drinks before leaving.
Avoid taking any breaks until you feel tired.
Plan to drive through the night.

Getting enough sleep before a long journey helps reduce the risk of driver fatigue. Plan breaks in advance and avoid starting a long drive when you are already tired.

Rest and preparation before a long drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

316. What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

Maintain speed because the animals are beside the road.
✓ Reduce speed and pass only when there is enough space.
Use the opposite lane without checking.
Drive close to prevent them entering your lane.

Animals beside a narrow road may step into your path. Slow down and leave as much safe space as possible.

Animals gathered beside a narrow rural road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving too close to the edge of the road?

317. Why should you avoid driving too close to the edge of the road?

It can reduce the effectiveness of your mirrors.
It can make oncoming traffic harder to see.
It can make the steering require more effort.
✓ The edge may be uneven or weak.

Road edges can be soft, uneven, or damaged. Driving too close to the edge can reduce control or cause the vehicle to leave the road.

Vehicle travelling close to the road edge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to cross while listening to loud music?

318. Why is it dangerous to cross while listening to loud music?

It makes you walk more slowly across the road.
Drivers may not hear you crossing.
Music can make you lose your balance.
✓ You may not hear approaching traffic.

Loud music can reduce your awareness of vehicles, bicycles, horns, and other warning sounds.

Pedestrian listening to music while crossing the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

319. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine coolant is too cold.
✓ Risk of icy road conditions.
Winter tyres are fitted.
Air conditioning is active.

This symbol warns that the outside temperature is low enough for ice to form. Road surfaces, especially bridges and shaded areas, may be slippery even when they appear clear.

Icy-road warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if illness affects your ability to drive safely?

320. What should you do if illness affects your ability to drive safely?

✓ Do not drive until you are fit to do so.
Drive slowly and avoid busy roads.
Ask a passenger to watch the road for you.
Drive only if the journey is short.

Illness can reduce concentration, alertness, coordination, or reaction time. If you do not feel fit to drive safely, postpone the journey or use another form of transport.

Driver feeling unwell before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should always wear a seat belt, even on short trips.

321. You should always wear a seat belt, even on short trips.

False.
✓ True.

Seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury and should be worn on every trip, even short ones.

Driver wearing a seat belt for a car journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

322. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Power-steering control.
✓ Steering-wheel adjustment.
Seat adjustment.
Cruise control.

This control adjusts the position of the steering wheel. Depending on the vehicle, the steering wheel may be moved up or down and forwards or backwards to obtain a safe and comfortable driving position.

Control for adjusting the steering-wheel position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main safety risk of aggressive driving?

323. What is the main safety risk of aggressive driving?

It can increase fuel consumption.
✓ It increases the risk of crashes.
It may attract the attention of the police.
It can make the journey less comfortable.

Aggressive driving, such as tailgating, speeding, or sudden lane changes, reduces safety margins and increases the risk of crashes and conflict with other road users.

Driver displaying aggressive behaviour in traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you use your indicator before turning?

324. Why should you use your indicator before turning?

To make other road users stop for you.
To show that the turn is safe to make.
✓ To show other road users what you plan to do.
To give yourself priority over other traffic.

Indicators help other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians understand your intentions in time.

Vehicle indicator signalling an intended turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a bicycle journey?

325. What should you check before starting a bicycle journey?

Only the brakes if the journey is short.
The lights, but not the steering or brakes.
Nothing if the bicycle worked properly yesterday.
✓ The brakes, tyres, lights, and steering.

A basic safety check can reveal problems with the brakes, tyres, lights, or steering before they cause an accident.

Checking a bicycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

326. Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

A small amount of alcohol improves balance.
A helmet protects you from alcohol-related risks.
✓ Alcohol can reduce your balance, coordination, judgement, and reaction time.
Alcohol affects driving more than cycling.

Alcohol can make it harder to balance, steer, judge distances, and react to hazards. Riding a bicycle while impaired may also be against the law.

Alcohol consumption and bicycle-riding safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the SET function of cruise control normally do?

327. What does the SET function of cruise control normally do?

Switches cruise control off.
✓ Stores the current speed as the cruising speed.
Applies the brakes automatically.
Returns to a previously stored speed.

The SET function normally stores the vehicle's current speed as the cruise-control speed. Use it only when the road, traffic, and driving conditions are suitable.

SET button for storing a cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

328. Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

To prevent your headlights from overheating.
✓ You need enough space to react if traffic slows or stops.
Because vehicles ahead cannot see you in their mirrors.
Because tunnels usually have a poor road surface.

Limited space and visibility can make incidents inside tunnels especially dangerous. A safe gap gives you more time to react.

Gap between vehicles travelling through a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

329. Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

These lanes are usually free from moving traffic.
Trams and buses must always stop before crossings.
✓ A tram or bus may approach quickly.
You only need to check for traffic from one direction.

Check carefully before crossing or entering a tram or bus lane. Trams cannot steer around obstacles, and both trams and buses may need significant distance to stop.

Traffic crossing a lane used by public transport
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a tunnel in bright sunlight?

330. What should you expect when leaving a tunnel in bright sunlight?

The road surface becoming more slippery.
The brakes becoming more powerful.
The speed limit automatically increasing.
✓ Temporary glare and reduced visibility.

Your eyes may need time to adjust from the darker tunnel to bright daylight. Reduce speed if necessary and remain alert.

Bright sunlight at the exit of a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

331. What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

Drive close behind until there is room to pass.
Overtake quickly before the animal changes direction.
Flash your headlights to encourage it to move aside.
✓ Slow down and pass carefully with plenty of space.

Animals can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Reduce speed, keep distance, and pass only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching an animal-drawn vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side do people drive on in New Zealand?

332. Which side do people drive on in New Zealand?

✓ Left-hand side.
Right-hand side.

Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road in New Zealand.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the vehicle consistently pulls to one side?

333. What should you do if the vehicle consistently pulls to one side?

Increase speed to see if the vehicle straightens.
Reduce pressure in the tyre on the opposite side.
✓ Check the tyre pressures and have the steering, alignment, and brakes inspected.
Keep driving and correct the steering as needed.

Persistent pulling can be caused by incorrect tyre pressure, wheel misalignment, suspension wear, or a braking fault. It should not be ignored.

Vehicle pulling to one side while travelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

334. How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

Loose on the ground so pedestrians can step over it.
✓ So it does not create a trip hazard or obstruct the route.
Across the shortest possible route, even if people walk there.
Around nearby street furniture to keep it under tension.

An EV charging cable should be positioned so it does not create a trip hazard or unnecessarily obstruct pedestrians. Where a cable must cross a walking route, use an appropriate approved cable-management or protection system and follow local requirements.

Charging cable near a pedestrian route
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

335. How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

Release it if the pedal vibrates.
Use the parking brake instead.
Pump it rapidly.
✓ Press it firmly and keep it pressed.

During emergency braking with ABS, press the brake pedal firmly and keep it pressed. Pulsation or vibration through the pedal can be normal while ABS is operating, so do not pump or release the brake.

Firm brake-pedal pressure during emergency braking with ABS
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

336. What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

Switch the ventilation to recirculation and keep driving.
✓ Open the windows, stop safely, leave the vehicle, and seek assistance.
Ignore the fumes if no warning lights appear.
Turn up the heater to clear the fumes.

Exhaust gases may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may not be visible. The exhaust system should be inspected before the vehicle is used again.

Vehicle exhaust fumes and cabin ventilation
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

337. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Instrument-panel brightness.
Automatic headlights.
Headlight level adjustment.
Front fog lights.

This control adjusts the brightness of the instrument panel and dashboard illumination, allowing the driver to reduce or increase the lighting level.

Control for adjusting instrument-panel brightness
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

338. What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

✓ Tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and controls.
Only the brakes and lights.
Nothing if the motorcycle was recently serviced.
Only the fuel level and mirrors.

Before riding, carry out a basic safety check. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, steering and controls, and inspect the drive chain, belt or other drive components where applicable. Finding a problem before setting off can prevent a breakdown or loss of control.

Checking a motorcycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you check the engine oil level?

339. How should you check the engine oil level?

✓ Follow the manufacturer's instructions with the vehicle on level ground.
Check it while the engine is running at high speed.
Fill the engine until oil reaches the filler opening.
Use the coolant reservoir to measure the oil level.

Use the dipstick or electronic oil-level system as described in the owner's manual. The engine is usually switched off, and the vehicle should be standing on level ground.

Checking the engine oil level
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should the side stand be fully raised before riding a motorcycle?

340. Should the side stand be fully raised before riding a motorcycle?

No, it only needs to be raised on motorways.
Yes, but only when carrying a passenger.
✓ Yes, a lowered stand could catch the road and affect control.
No, it can remain down when riding slowly.

The side stand should be fully raised before riding. If it remains down, it may strike the road surface, particularly when turning, and could cause the rider to lose control.

Motorcycle side stand and pre-ride checks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can slow engine cranking or dim lights indicate?

341. What can slow engine cranking or dim lights indicate?

Worn brake pads.
Incorrect tyre pressure.
A blocked air filter.
✓ A weak battery or charging-system problem.

Slow starting, dim lights, or repeated battery warnings can indicate a weak battery, poor electrical connection, or a fault in the charging system.

Vehicle battery and difficulty starting the engine
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

342. When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

While the vehicle is still moving forward slowly.
Whenever you want to reduce speed.
✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Before pressing the clutch pedal.

Select reverse gear only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Press the clutch fully before selecting reverse to avoid unnecessary wear or damage to the transmission.

Selecting reverse gear in a stationary manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check your mirrors regularly while driving?

343. Why should you check your mirrors regularly while driving?

To avoid having to check your blind spots.
To judge your speed from vehicles behind.
✓ To stay aware of traffic around you.
To check whether passengers are comfortable.

Regular mirror checks help you understand what is happening behind and beside your vehicle.

Driver checking traffic in a rear-view mirror
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

344. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking brake applied.
✓ Brake-pad wear warning.
Brake-system fault.
Low tyre pressure.

This symbol indicates that the brake pads may be worn and should be inspected. Continuing to drive with excessively worn brake pads can reduce braking performance and damage other brake components.

Brake-pad wear warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

345. Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

✓ It can cause the windows to mist.
It can reduce tyre pressure.
It can switch off the air conditioning.
It can overheat the engine.

Using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions can allow moisture to build up inside the vehicle and increase window misting, especially when the air conditioning is not dehumidifying the air. Switching to fresh outside air can help clear condensation.

Air-recirculation setting and misted vehicle windows
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

346. What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

Steer quickly toward the side of the road.
Release the steering wheel and let the vehicle slow itself.
✓ Hold the steering wheel firmly and slow down gradually.
Pump the brake pedal repeatedly.

A tyre burst can make the vehicle unstable. Hold the wheel firmly, avoid sudden braking or steering, and slow down gradually.

Vehicle tyre damaged by a sudden blowout
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

347. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Driving mode selection.
Four-wheel drive.
Cruise control.
Electronic stability control.

This control selects a driving mode. Depending on the vehicle, different modes can alter characteristics such as accelerator response, steering assistance, transmission behaviour or energy use.

Selector for the vehicle's driving modes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when a road worker directs traffic?

348. What should you do when a road worker directs traffic?

Obey only if traffic has completely stopped.
✓ Follow the worker's signals and instructions.
Follow the vehicle ahead instead of the worker's signal.
Follow the normal traffic signs instead.

Authorised road workers may control traffic through a work zone. Watch carefully and follow their directions.

Road worker directing traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

349. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Oil-pressure warning.
✓ Diesel particulate filter warning.
Engine-management warning.
Charging-system warning.

This symbol indicates a problem with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), often because soot has accumulated in the filter. The vehicle may require regeneration or professional inspection, depending on the vehicle and warning status.

Diesel particulate filter warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

350. Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

Junctions may only be entered at low speed.
Traffic lights may stop working.
✓ Other traffic needs space to move safely.
Your stopping distance becomes longer.

Blocking a junction can prevent vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians from moving safely. Enter only when there is enough space to drive through and clear the junction.

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