Our vehicles are really easy to drive, however they are often longer, higher and wider than vehicles you may be used too so here a a few things to remember while on the road:
- Look out for low-hanging branches, shop fronts etc and be conscious of the height when using undercover carparks or going through drive-thru's. There is a sticker located in the top right hand corner of the windscreen that tells you the height of your vehicle.
- When reversing it may be helpful to have someone stand at the rear to guide you.
- Remember to give yourself lots of space when turning corners.
- Familiarise yourself where the lights, wipers and other controls are before you set off.
- Secure all cupboards and belongings before setting off.
Remember, in New Zealand we drive on the left side of the road.
If you are used to driving on the right remember to:
- look over your right shoulder for traffic coming from behind; and use all your car mirrors to check that it is safe before you move into traffic, change lanes or pass other vehicles.
- When approaching roundabouts remember to give away to traffic coming look over your right shoulder.
- When driving in two or more lanes of traffic, keep in the left lane as much as possible. Use the lane(s) closer to the centre line only to pass other vehicles or to turn right.
- Be extra careful when you are driving in rural areas where there is less traffic.
Keep to the speed limits and drive carefully.
In urban speed limit is 50 km/h or 30mph. The rural speed limit is 100 km/h or 60mph.
Please note: for 6 Berth Britz Campervans this speed limit is reduced to 90km/h, or 55mph.
- The 4WD capability of your vehicle will provide improved stability and control in off-road conditions. 4WD should always be engaged when travelling on all loose gravel, sand or dirt conditions. 4WD should also be engaged when attempting water crossings.
- To engage 4WD please remember you will need to stop and exit the vehicles to lock the front wheel hubs. Then you can select 4WD HIGH for normal 4WD conditions or 4WD LOW for river crossings and extremely sandy or boggy conditions.
- Please note that if both front and rear wheels on the same side lose traction, the wheels on the other side of the vehicles will not release it from this situation as the vehicles are not fitted with differential locks or limited slip differentials.
- When you return to the sealed highway, if you find it difficult to disengage the 4WD system, it may be necessary to roll the vehicle forward or backward in gear a short distance to release it.
- DO NOT LEAVE VEHICLE IN 4WD ON SEALED ROAD
Helpful Links for Safety, Rules and Penalties
The New Zealand Road Code The Official New Zealand Road Code website helping you to understand New Zealand traffic law and become a safe and courteous road user.
AA (Automobile Association) Roadwatch This website is kept up to date with major incidents around New Zealand. You can browse by region, and see if there are any road closures.
Land Transport New Zealand Detailed information about land transport in New Zealand, including safe driving tips, driving rules, and regulations
Alcohol Advisory of New Zealand Come here to find out the alcohol content of a standard drink to allow you a better understanding of your limits
New Zealand Police Come here to find out how to stay safe on New Zealand roads.
Please ensure that when you are driving a Britz campervan or rental car in New Zealand, you drive responsibly and safely. If you drink, don't drive.
Petroleum and Diesel prices fluctuate regularly. We suggest you check out Petrol Price Watch to keep an eye on prices so that you can successfully budget for your holiday.
If you are travelling north of Auckland during your holiday, there is a toll road between Orewa and Puhoi. You will be responsible for paying any toll fees that you incur when driving this route. Check out the Northern Gateway Toll Road website for more information.
Road maps can be purchased at all of our branches or for even easier navigation around New Zealand, you may want to hire a NavMan (GPS unit), this can be done when you make your booking or at the branch on pick up (subject to availability).
Britz offer 24hr roadside assistance, so no matter where you are, we’re only a phone call away to help you out. Just call 0800 831 900 and we’ll get you back on your holiday in no time.