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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 if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

451. What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

Apply the parking brake to straighten the vehicle.
Steer rapidly from side to side.
Accelerate sharply to regain traction.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction you want to travel.

Avoid sudden braking or steering. Look where you want to go and use gentle controls while the tyres regain grip.

Vehicle skidding on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you use rear fog lights?

452. When should you use rear fog lights?

When another vehicle is following closely.
When driving on an unlit road.
When driving on high-speed roads at night.
✓ When visibility is seriously reduced by fog or similar conditions.

Rear fog lights are very bright and should only be used when visibility is poor enough to require them.

Rear fog lights used in severely reduced visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in New Zealand?

453. What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in New Zealand?

YIELD.
PARE.
✓ GIVE WAY.
STOP.

Give-way signs in New Zealand commonly display the words GIVE WAY.

Wording used on give-way and yield signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

454. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol relates to the lane-departure warning or lane-keeping system. The system monitors the vehicle's position within its lane and may warn the driver if the vehicle begins to leave the lane unintentionally.

Lane-departure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

455. Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

The road surface is usually more slippery near bus stops.
A stopped bus always has priority over passing traffic.
Vehicles beside a bus must always stop and wait.
✓ Passengers may step out or cross near the bus.

Stopped buses can hide pedestrians, and passengers may cross unexpectedly. Slow down and be ready to react.

Vehicle passing a bus at a stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid stopping in a blind spot of a large vehicle?

456. Why should you avoid stopping in a blind spot of a large vehicle?

The driver can always see you in the mirrors.
Blind spots only matter when a vehicle is reversing.
Stopping beside a large vehicle makes you easier to see.
✓ The driver may not be able to see you.

Large vehicles have bigger blind spots. If you stop where the driver cannot see you, you may be at risk when the vehicle moves or turns.

Vehicle positioned in a large vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

457. What should you do after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

Approach the animal immediately.
Continue driving if the vehicle still works.
✓ Stop safely, warn other traffic, and seek appropriate help.
Leave the scene and report it later.

After an animal collision, stop in a safe place if possible and protect yourself and other road users from further danger. Do not approach an injured or frightened animal unless it is safe to do so. Contact the appropriate police, road authority, animal service, or emergency service as required by the situation and local rules.

Vehicle stopped after a collision with an animal
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

458. What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

Enter if the traffic light is green.
Enter the junction and wait for traffic to move.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the junction.
Use the horn so traffic ahead moves forward.

Do not enter a junction if traffic ahead prevents you from clearing it safely. Waiting before the junction helps avoid blocking crossing traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, or other road users.

Queue of traffic blocking a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who is responsible for staying safe when crossing the road?

459. Who is responsible for staying safe when crossing the road?

Only pedestrians once they enter the road.
Only the road user without priority.
✓ Everyone using the road.
Only drivers when pedestrians have priority.

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists all need to stay alert and follow the rules.

Pedestrians and traffic sharing a road crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcycle helmet be worn correctly and securely fastened?

460. Why should a motorcycle helmet be worn correctly and securely fastened?

✓ To reduce the risk of serious head injury in a collision.
To prevent the motorcycle from skidding.
To reduce fuel consumption at higher speeds.
To make the motorcycle easier to balance.

A correctly fitted and securely fastened motorcycle helmet helps protect the rider's head and can reduce the risk and severity of head injury in a collision or fall.

Motorcyclist wearing a securely fastened helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

461. What should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

Secure only the part that remains inside the vehicle.
Let the load extend as far as necessary.
Cover it with a cloth instead of marking it.
✓ Make sure it is legal, secure, and properly marked when required.

An extending load may create additional danger and may require specific markings or equipment under local rules.

Load projecting beyond a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

462. Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

Its headlights may point higher uphill.
✓ It may slow down suddenly or roll backward.
Its engine may become louder on the hill.
Its tyres may warm up more quickly.

Vehicles may lose speed or briefly roll backward when starting on a steep incline. Extra space gives you more time to react.

Vehicle following another up a steep hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

463. Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

It prevents the battery from charging.
It makes the steering wheel harder to turn.
It reduces the vehicle's braking power.
✓ It can increase aerodynamic drag and energy use.

An unused roof rack or roof box increases aerodynamic drag, particularly at higher speeds. Removing it when it is not needed can reduce fuel or energy consumption.

Roof rack or roof box fitted to a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

464. What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

✓ Follow the temporary signs and merge safely when required.
Ignore the temporary signs if your lane is still open.
Follow construction vehicles through the closed lane.
Merge without checking if traffic is moving slowly.

Observe the temporary signs, adjust your speed, and merge safely according to the traffic situation and local rules.

Temporary traffic-lane closure ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

465. Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

Yes, but only children need restraints in the rear.
Only when travelling on motorways or at higher speeds.
Only if the vehicle does not have rear airbags.
✓ Yes, using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate.

Rear-seat passengers should be securely restrained using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate. Proper restraint reduces the risk of serious injury and prevents occupants from being thrown around or forwards in a collision.

Rear-seat passengers secured for a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

466. What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

Activates the rear wiper.
✓ Operates the windscreen wipers once.
Runs the wipers continuously.
Sprays washer fluid onto the windscreen.

The single-wipe position operates the windscreen wipers for one sweep and then stops. It is useful when only a small amount of water or spray needs to be cleared from the windscreen.

Single-wipe setting on the windscreen-wiper control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be especially alert for wild animals at dawn and dusk?

467. Why should you be especially alert for wild animals at dawn and dusk?

Speed limits change automatically at dawn and dusk.
Animals cannot see vehicles during daylight.
✓ Many animals are more active at these times.
Wild animals avoid roads during the rest of the day.

Many wild animals are most active around dawn and dusk, when visibility may also be reduced.

Wild animal beside a road in low light
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

468. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
✓ Fuel-filler flap release.
Boot release.
Parking brake.

This control releases the fuel-filler flap, allowing access to the vehicle's fuel filler.

Release control for the fuel-filler flap
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid following another vehicle too closely in fog?

469. Why should you avoid following another vehicle too closely in fog?

To reduce fuel consumption in poor visibility.
To increase stopping distance.
✓ You may have too little time to react if it brakes suddenly.
To keep the windscreen clearer.

Following too closely reduces your reaction time and can lead to a collision if the vehicle ahead slows unexpectedly.

Following another vehicle in fog
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic stops inside a tunnel?

470. What should you do if traffic stops inside a tunnel?

✓ Stop at a safe distance and follow signals or instructions.
Reverse toward the tunnel entrance.
Make a U-turn and leave the tunnel.
Drive onto the pedestrian walkway.

Remain calm, keep space from the vehicle ahead, and obey traffic signals, signs, or instructions from tunnel staff.

Traffic stopped inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which speed unit is used in New Zealand?

471. Which speed unit is used in New Zealand?

Miles per hour (mph).
✓ Kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speeds in New Zealand are shown in kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speed expressed in kilometres per hour
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

472. What is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

To fold the mirrors automatically.
✓ To clear mist or ice from the mirror glass.
To improve the headlights.
To adjust the mirror angle.

Heated door mirrors warm the mirror glass to help clear mist, condensation, or light ice and improve rearward visibility. On some vehicles, they operate together with the rear-window demister.

Heated door-mirror control and demisting function
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

473. What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Follow another vehicle closely for visibility.
Use hazard lights and continue to your destination.
✓ Reduce speed and stop safely using any remaining lights or hazard lights.

Without effective headlights, you may not see hazards and other road users may not see you. Stop in a safe location as soon as possible.

Vehicle with failed headlights at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

474. Why should you leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

✓ A door may open suddenly.
Because the road could be slippery beside parked cars.
To stay outside the marked parking area.
To make it easier for traffic to overtake you.

A driver or passenger may open a door without seeing you. Leaving space reduces the risk of a dooring collision.

Cyclist riding beside parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

475. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Seat heating.
Lumbar support.
✓ Seat adjustment.
Mirror adjustment.

This control adjusts the position of the seat. Depending on the vehicle, it may move the seat forwards or backwards, raise or lower it, or change the backrest angle.

Control for adjusting the driver's seat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

476. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Cabin temperature adjustment.
✓ Airflow direction.
Air conditioning.
Cabin fan speed.

This control selects the direction of the ventilation airflow, such as towards the face, feet or windscreen.

Control for directing cabin ventilation airflow
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

477. What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

The road surface may suddenly become more slippery.
✓ A sudden gust may affect your vehicle.
The vehicle may automatically slow down.
Your steering may become lighter.

Buildings, trees, and other obstacles can block wind. When you leave shelter, a sudden gust may push your vehicle.

Vehicle leaving a sheltered stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

478. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
Air conditioning.
Heated steering wheel.
✓ Seat heating.

This control activates the seat heating, which warms the seat cushion and, on many vehicles, the backrest. Several heat levels may be available.

Heated-seat control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

479. What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

Shift into neutral and let the vehicle coast to a stop.
Apply the parking brake suddenly at full force.
Continue slowly until the brakes begin working again.
✓ Reduce speed using other available braking methods and stop safely.

Remain calm, warn other road users, and use other available braking methods to reduce speed. This may include engine braking or a lower gear, and careful use of the parking or emergency brake according to the vehicle's design. Steer toward the safest available stopping area.

Vehicle braking-system failure while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can you check which fuel is suitable for your vehicle?

480. How can you check which fuel is suitable for your vehicle?

Use petrol unless the engine sounds like a diesel.
Choose the fuel that has the same colour nozzle as last time.
✓ Check the fuel-filler label, fuel cap, or vehicle information.
Ask another driver with a similar-looking vehicle.

Before refuelling, check which fuel type the vehicle requires. The correct fuel is often shown inside the fuel-filler flap, on or near the fuel cap, or in the vehicle information or owner's manual. Do not rely only on nozzle colours, as these can vary between filling stations and countries.

Checking the fuel label before refuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep a safe distance from cyclists?

481. Why should you keep a safe distance from cyclists?

Cyclists cannot signal before changing direction.
Cyclists must move aside whenever a vehicle approaches.
Bicycles need more stopping distance than cars.
✓ They may need space to avoid obstacles.

Cyclists may need to move around potholes, parked cars, or drains. Giving them enough space helps prevent dangerous situations.

Lateral clearance between a vehicle and a cyclist
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

482. Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

Because phone signals can interfere with vehicle electronics.
✓ Because it distracts you from the road.
Because it can disable the cruise control system.
Because it can make your reactions faster.

Using a phone while driving reduces attention, reaction time, and control of the vehicle. A hands-free system may reduce the need to handle the phone, but the conversation itself can still be distracting.

Phone distracting a driver from the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

483. How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

While braking firmly on the rails.
With the motorcycle leaning sharply.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.
At a very shallow angle alongside the rails.

Rails can be slippery and can catch a motorcycle tyre, especially when wet. Cross them at a sufficiently large angle, as close to perpendicular as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing.

Motorcycle crossing rails in the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another driver behaves aggressively towards you?

484. What should you do if another driver behaves aggressively towards you?

✓ Stay calm, avoid confrontation, and create more distance.
Respond with your horn and gestures.
Follow them closely to show your disapproval.
Stop beside them so you can discuss the problem.

If another driver behaves aggressively, do not retaliate or become involved in a confrontation. Stay calm, increase the distance between you, and let the other vehicle move away when possible. If you feel threatened, go to a safe public place and seek appropriate assistance.

Driver facing aggressive behaviour from another road user
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

485. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol indicates that the sidelights, also known as position or parking lights, are switched on. They help make the vehicle visible to other road users but provide little illumination of the road ahead.

Sidelight indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which roads are most likely to cause aquaplaning?

486. Which roads are most likely to cause aquaplaning?

Roads with freshly painted road markings.
✓ Roads with standing water or deep puddles.
Roads with loose chippings.
Roads exposed to strong sunlight.

Standing water can collect in dips, ruts, or puddles, increasing the chance that tyres will lose grip.

Standing water on a road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not overtake near the top of a hill?

487. Why should you not overtake near the top of a hill?

Vehicles ahead always have priority on hills.
✓ You may not see oncoming traffic or hidden hazards.
Your engine loses power near the top of a hill.
Hilltops usually have a slippery road surface.

Near the top of a hill, your view ahead is limited. Oncoming vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles may be hidden.

Hill crest hiding the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

488. Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

✓ The driver may not be able to see the motorcycle.
The vehicle ahead must always change lanes.
The motorcycle's indicators may be harder to see.
The motorcycle will use more fuel.

Motorcycles can be difficult to see, particularly when they remain in another vehicle's blind spot. Avoid staying alongside a vehicle where the driver may not see you, and choose a position where you are more likely to be visible.

Motorcycle in another vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must you avoid smoking or open flames at a filling station?

489. Why must you avoid smoking or open flames at a filling station?

Smoke can interfere with the fuel gauge.
Smoke can prevent the fuel cap from sealing.
✓ Fuel vapours can ignite and cause a fire.
Heat can make the fuel nozzle stop automatically.

Petrol and other fuels can produce flammable vapours. Smoking, open flames, sparks, or other ignition sources can ignite these vapours and cause a serious fire. Follow all filling-station safety rules while refuelling.

No-smoking warning at a filling station
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

490. Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

To support the lower back.
To make the seat belt tighter.
To improve rear visibility.
✓ To reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.

A correctly adjusted head restraint helps support the head and can reduce the risk of neck injury, especially in a rear-end collision. The top of the restraint should normally be level with the top of the head.

Adjusting a vehicle seat's head restraint
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving on icy roads?

491. What should you do when driving on icy roads?

Maintain normal speed if the road appears clear.
Follow the vehicle ahead more closely for guidance.
✓ Drive slowly and avoid sudden braking, steering, or acceleration.
Use quick steering corrections if the vehicle starts to slide.

Ice greatly reduces tyre grip. Drive gently, keep extra distance, and avoid sudden movements that could cause a skid.

Vehicle travelling on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

492. Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

The vehicle becomes heavier as speed increases.
The suspension becomes less effective at high speed.
The brakes cannot remove water from the tyres.
✓ The tyres have less time to clear water from the road surface.

At higher speeds, the tyres may not disperse water effectively, making it easier for the vehicle to lose contact with the road.

Vehicle speed and aquaplaning on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

493. How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

It makes the brakes respond more quickly.
It reduces the driver's reaction time.
✓ It can increase the distance needed to stop.
It always shortens the stopping distance.

A heavily loaded vehicle has more mass and may require additional distance to slow down or stop safely.

Loaded vehicle and the space needed for braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle becomes stuck on a railway crossing?

494. What should you do if your vehicle becomes stuck on a railway crossing?

✓ Get everyone out, move away, and contact the emergency services.
Stay inside the vehicle and call for assistance.
Try to restart the vehicle until help arrives.
Move everyone beside the vehicle while waiting.

Move everyone well away from the tracks. Use the crossing emergency telephone or displayed contact information where available, or contact the emergency services immediately.

Vehicle stranded on a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when turning across oncoming traffic?

495. Why should you be careful when turning across oncoming traffic?

Turning gives you priority over approaching traffic.
✓ You must judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles.
Oncoming vehicles need more distance to change lanes.
Your steering becomes less responsive during the turn.

Turning across traffic requires careful observation. Misjudging speed or distance can lead to a serious collision.

Vehicle preparing to turn across oncoming traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a direction indicator does not cancel after a turn?

496. What should you do if a direction indicator does not cancel after a turn?

Press the horn.
Switch on the hazard warning lights.
Leave it flashing until the next turn.
✓ Return the indicator control to its neutral position.

Direction indicators often cancel automatically after a turn, but if an indicator remains on, return the indicator control to its neutral position so you do not mislead other road users.

Returning the indicator stalk to its neutral position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

497. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking brake applied.
Door open.
Brake-system warning.
✓ Seat belt not fastened.

This symbol is a seat-belt reminder. It indicates that the driver or another detected occupant has not fastened their seat belt.

Seat-belt reminder symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen wipers stop working during heavy rain?

498. What should you do if the windscreen wipers stop working during heavy rain?

Continue slowly using the hazard lights.
✓ Reduce speed and stop in a safe place as soon as possible.
Follow another vehicle closely so you can see its lights.
Use the washer fluid repeatedly to clear the windscreen.

Do not continue when you cannot see clearly. Slow down smoothly and stop somewhere protected from traffic.

Windscreen wipers failing during heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a trailer begins to sway?

499. What should you do if a trailer begins to sway?

Accelerate to pull the trailer straight.
Move into another lane to create more space.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and reduce speed smoothly.
Steer quickly from side to side.

Sudden steering or braking can worsen trailer sway. Stay calm, hold a steady course, and reduce speed smoothly.

Trailer swaying behind a towing vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before joining a motorway?

500. What should you do before joining a motorway?

Move onto the motorway as soon as the lane markings allow.
Signal and expect motorway traffic to make space for you.
Wait until the end of the slip road before checking for a gap.
✓ Check your mirrors and blind spot, signal, and look for a safe gap.

Observe motorway traffic early, signal clearly, and merge only when there is a safe gap.

Driver checking motorway traffic before merging
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA