Safe Driving Guide · New Zealand

More safe driving (part 1 of 3): New Zealand safe driving

Key points on more safe driving for the New Zealand learner test. Each answer is checked against the official New Zealand handbook or road rules; use the practice-question links to test yourself.

Your car breaks down on a busy road. What is the safest first action?

Answer: Steer far left, stop in a safe spot and use hazard lights

Indicate, steer as far left as possible and choose a safe place, ideally off the road. Use hazard lights and call for help.

Practice question 72 · official source

You are about to open your car door at the roadside. What should you do first?

Answer: Check your mirrors and over your shoulder for cyclists coming alongside

You must not cause a hazard by opening a door. Look for bike riders and others before opening it.

Practice question 73 · official source

A child aged 5 is travelling in your car. What must they use?

Answer: An approved child restraint suitable for their size

Every passenger under 7 must be properly restrained by an approved child restraint appropriate for them.

Practice question 74 · official source

You are involved in a crash on a road. What must you do first?

Answer: Stop, check for injuries and give all practicable help

A driver involved in an accident must stop, check for injuries and give all practicable assistance.

Practice question 75 · official source

A crash injures someone. By when must a driver report it to the Police?

Answer: As soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest

If an accident involves injury or death, the driver must report it to an enforcement officer as soon as reasonably practicable and within 24 hours.

Practice question 76 · official source

What must a person riding a bicycle on a New Zealand road wear?

Answer: An approved safety helmet that is securely fastened

Anyone riding or being carried on a bicycle on a road must wear a securely fastened helmet of an approved standard.

Practice question 77 · official source

Who may ride a bicycle on a footpath?

Answer: Children aged 12 or under, and someone accompanying them

Cycling on footpaths is allowed only for children 12 or under, their accompanying adult, and delivery of newspapers or mail.

Practice question 78 · official source

You are on a multi-lane road and an emergency vehicle with its siren on approaches from behind. What should you do?

Answer: Slow down and move to the left lane so it can pass on the right

You must make way for emergency vehicles as soon as it is safe, stopping if necessary. On multi-lane roads, move to the left lane.

Practice question 79 · official source

On a long drive, how often should you plan a rest stop?

Answer: About 15 minutes at least every 2 hours

Plan a rest of around 15 minutes at least every 2 hours, and swap drivers or stop if you become tired.

Practice question 80 · official source

Which of these is a hidden hazard?

Answer: A truck blocking your view of a side road

Hidden hazards, such as vehicles blocking your view of side roads or driveways, are harder to spot and more likely to cause a crash.

Practice question 84 · official source