Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
At single-lane bridges (of which there are a surprisingly large number), a smaller red ar-
row pointing in your direction of travel means that
you
give way.
Speed limits on the open road are generally 100km/h; in built-up areas the limit is usu-
ally 50km/h. Speed cameras and radars are used extensively.
All vehicle occupants must wear a seatbelt or risk a fine. Small children must be belted
into approved safety seats.
Always carry your licence when driving. Drink-driving is a serious offence and remains
a significant problem in NZ, despite widespread campaigns and severe penalties. The
legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% for drivers over 20, and 0% (zero!) for those under 20.
Hitching & Ride-Sharing
NZ is no longer immune from the perils of solo hitching (especially for women). Those
who decide to hitch are taking a small but potentially serious risk. Hitching is never en-
tirely safe, and we don't recommend it. That said, it's not unusual to see hitchhikers along
country roads.
Alternatively, check hostel noticeboards for ride-share opportunities, or have a look on-
line at
www.carpoolnz.org
or
www.nationalcarshare.co.nz
.
Local Transport
Bus, Train & Tram
NZ's larger cities have extensive bus services but, with a few honourable exceptions, they
are mainly daytime, weekday operations; weekend services can be infrequent or nonex-
istent. Negotiating inner-city Auckland is made easier by the Link and free City Circuit
buses; Hamilton also has a free city-centre loop bus; Christchurch has a free city-shuttle
service and the historic tramway (now open again after the earthquake). Most main cities
have late-night buses for boozy Friday and Saturday nights.
The only cities with decent train services are Auckland and Wellington, with four and
five suburban routes respectively.
Taxi
The main cities have plenty of taxis and even small towns may have a local service.
Train
NZ train travel is about the journey, not about getting anywhere in a hurry.
KiwiRail Scen-
ic Journeys
(
0800 872 467, 04-495 0775;
www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz
)
operates four
