Driving in New Zealand
If your overseas driving licence is in English, you can drive in New Zealand as a visitor. If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll need an official translation - this is generally in the form of an international driving permit from your licensing authority.
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The drive from Auckland to the wedding venue near Tauranga is about three hours, depending on traffic. Because New Zealand’s roads are narrow, fast and rural, it’s best not to step off a long flight and get straight on the road! We’d recommend staying in Auckland for a day or two, or in Tauranga (a miniature Miami) before the wedding itself. There are also Airbnb and private holiday rentals close to the venue - let us know if you’re interested and we can help you out there!
Tips for driving like a Kiwi
New Zealand drives on the left side of the road and all vehicles are right-hand drive
Most main ‘highways’ are two lanes - one in each direction - with no median or barrier
Distances and speed limits are in kilometres per hour. Urban speed limits are generally 50 km/h (sometimes lower) and rural speed limits are generally 100 km/h (occasionally higher).
It’s very easy to underestimate driving times - always plan based on a very conservative time estimate
Everyone in a car must use a seat belt, and the driver is liable. Any use of a phone is also illegal while driving
Police and local authorities operate hidden speed cameras - there are no warning signs, and in summer they are everywhere
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Alcohol checkpoints and random breath testing are very common, particularly in summer. Better to rest up after a drink than get behind the wheel!
Vehicle insurance is not compulsory - so you should ensure you have comprehensive insurance in case you get in an accident and the other person is not insured