Rules for Driving in Nelson

Make sure you check out the rules and stay safe driving in Nelson.

 
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New Zealand Car Hire Partners

Stay safe and on the right side of the law in Nelson with our useful guide to the "dos and don'ts" of Nelson car hire.

Mostly, driving in Nelson is the same as Britain; be careful in Nelson, and obey the law.

Speed Limits in Nelson

On motorways around Nelson, speed limits are 100kph. In Nelson itself, speed limits are 50kph. Speed limits in Nelson are posted along the side of all roads. In Nelson if you break the speed limit, the Nelson police can fine you on the spot.

Drink Driving in Nelson

Drink driving is a serious offence in Nelson, and conviction results in a fine and prison. In Nelson, you can have some alcohol before driving in Nelson, but you shouldn't drink before driving. If you crash in Nelson whilst under the influence, your insurance won't be valid.

Quick guide to driving your Nelson hire car

  • In Nelson, drive on the left, and overtake on the right. In Nelson, "undertaking" is a traffic offence, and is punished with a fine.
  • In Nelson you must always wear a seat belt while driving in Nelson.
  • Always keep some change in the car for toll roads in Nelson.
  • Speed limits and distances on signs in Nelson are in km, and petrol is sold in litres at all Nelson fuel stations.
  • Always signal left when leaving a roundabout in Nelson
  • Be aware that the road can change without warning in Nelson from tarmac to shingle surface.
  • In Nelson you cannot overtake when there is a yellow line in the road.

    • Nelson Driving Restrictions for New Zealand

    When renting a car in Nelson, you cannot take it onto the North - South Island Ferry.

    Guide