Unique Roads
Unique Features of New Zealand Roads.

Single Lane Bridges, combined Road Rail bridges, plus livestock and wildlife are some of the unique features of driving New Zealand's roads, as they wind through our mountain and costal regions rising and falling with the terrain around foothills, lakes and following the course of many rivers.

 

One Way Bridges.

There are a number of one way bridges (single lane), on New Zealand roads. Some are controlled by traffic lights many are not.

The image at right is a representation of the signs you may see at the approach to these single lane bridges.

The diamond shaped sign shows that you are approaching a one lane section of road.

The Round sign with Red Border tells you that you must give way (yield) to on coming traffic.

If you have the right of way you will see the same diamond shaped warning, the sign below will be the Blue Rectangle with a large White arrow indicating you have the right of way.

Always Slow Down, and be prepared to stop, check for oncoming vehicles before driving onto the bridge.

You only have the right of way if the bridge is clear.

Road, Rail Bridges

The Taramakau, Single Lane Road & Rail Bridge West Coast, South Island.

Some one lane bridges on New Zealand roads allow for the passage of both motorists and trains. The signs at these bridges are generally the same as those mentioned previously.

Trains always have the right of way.

Do not try and beat the train across a bridge or at a rail crossing, it is foolish and down right dangerous.

 

Curves and Winding Roads

You will also see signs like those illustrated at the right on the approach to many curves (corners). The yellow diamond indicates the type of corner you are approaching, the number below that is the recommended Safe Speed in kilometres per hour at which to take that curve (corner).

Remember.

• These signs are only an indication of the safe recommended speed, not the safest speed. Always adjust your speed in accordance with the weather and road conditions.

 

Livestock on our Roads.

Little Blue Penguin waddle here	Native Wood Hen (Weka) wander here

Naturally your safety comes first, do not swerve to avoid animals on New Zealand roads if doing so would put yourself or others in greater danger. Drive to survive.

In some places you will come across signs like the image at right, these are generally native species in the area that are in need of care and protection not only from many introduced and destructive species but also from us and our vehicles. Please slow down and be prepared to give way to these locals.

Watch out for farm animals and horses particularly in rural areas. If you see them, slow down and be prepared to stop. Do not sound your horn, drive slowly up behind any livestock and follow the farmer's directions.