One-way trafficNew Zealand

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.


9. One-way traffic

One-way traffic means that vehicles on a road or carriageway may travel only in one designated direction. The permitted direction is normally indicated by traffic signs, lane arrows or road markings.

Some road users, such as cyclists or public-transport vehicles, may be allowed to travel in the opposite direction when signs expressly permit it. A one-way road does not by itself determine the speed limit, priority or parking rules.

One-way traffic
One-way traffic sign. (Auckland, New Zealand)
Wikimedia.org • LincolnGroup11 • CC BY-SA
What is a one-way road?

A one-way road is a road or carriageway on which vehicles may travel only in the designated direction.

How can you recognise one-way traffic?

One-way traffic is normally indicated by a one-way sign at the entrance and a no-entry sign at the opposite end. Lane arrows and road markings may provide additional guidance.

Is a one-way sign the same as a no-entry sign?

No. A one-way sign confirms the permitted direction of travel. A no-entry sign prohibits drivers from entering from the opposite direction.

Does one-way traffic apply to the entire road?

It may apply to an entire road, one carriageway, a particular lane or only a designated section. Drivers must follow the signs and markings applying to the part of the road they use.

Can a divided road have one-way traffic on each carriageway?

Yes. On a divided road, each carriageway normally carries traffic in one direction even though the road as a whole carries traffic in both directions.

May cyclists travel against one-way traffic?

Only when traffic signs or local law expressly permit contraflow cycling. Drivers should check supplementary signs and remain alert for cyclists approaching from the opposite direction.

May buses travel against one-way traffic?

Public-transport vehicles may use a contraflow lane where signs and road markings permit it. Other drivers may not use that lane unless they are also authorised.

Does a one-way road have its own speed limit?

No. The applicable speed depends on the country, road type, surrounding area and traffic signs.

Does one-way traffic change priority at intersections?

No. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary local priority rules.

Does traffic on a one-way road always have priority?

No. The one-way designation regulates direction of travel, not priority. Traffic entering or crossing the road may still have priority under signs or local law.

Which lane should you use on a one-way road?

Follow the local lane-positioning rules, lane arrows and destination signs. Drivers commonly keep to the normal side of the road unless overtaking, turning or choosing a marked lane.

Where should you position yourself before turning?

Use the lane or side indicated for the intended direction. On many one-way roads, drivers turning towards the opposite side of the road may position themselves closer to that side before turning.

May you overtake on a one-way road?

Overtaking may be permitted where there is sufficient space and no sign or rule prohibits it. The normal overtaking side and safety requirements continue to apply unless local law provides otherwise.

May you reverse on a one-way road?

A short reversing manoeuvre may be permitted where local law allows it and it can be completed safely. Drivers must not use reversing to travel along the road in the prohibited direction.

May you make a U-turn on a one-way road?

You may not turn around and continue against the permitted direction. A U-turn may also be prohibited by signs or general traffic law.

May you park on both sides of a one-way road?

This depends on local law, signs, markings and the available width. Some countries permit parking along either side, while others retain stricter positioning rules.

Can pedestrians come from both directions?

Yes. One-way traffic restrictions normally apply to vehicles using the carriageway, not to pedestrians using pavements or other pedestrian facilities.

Should you still check both directions?

Yes. Cyclists, buses, emergency vehicles or other authorised users may approach from the opposite direction. Drivers should check both directions before turning, crossing or opening a vehicle door.

What should you do if you enter a one-way road incorrectly?

Do not continue against traffic. Stop somewhere safe without creating additional danger and follow lawful directions to leave or correct the situation. Do not reverse blindly into an intersection.

How does one-way traffic end?

The restriction may end at an end sign, an intersection, a change in road design or a sign warning that two-way traffic resumes. Follow the local signs and road layout.

1 New Zealand 2 Motorway 3 Speed limit 4 Advisory speed 5 Bike path 6 Pedestrian warning 7 Bridge 8 Speed bump 9 One-way traffic 10 Slope 11 Bus lane 12 Stop sign 13 Give way 14 Roundabout 15 Road narrowing 16 Pedestrian crossing 17 Railway crossing 18 Mandatory direction 19 Turn prohibition 20 School area 21 Crossing animals 22 Slippery road 23 Curve 24 Chevron 25 Wrong-way driving 26 Roadworks 27 Crosswind 28 Height limit 29 Priority at the next junction 30 Traffic lights 31 Pedestrian lights 32 Road markings 33 Parking 34 Disabled parking 35 Reversing 36 U-turn 37 Tourist attraction 38 Charging station 39 Dangers 40 Cyclist 41 Bus 42 Police 43 Ambulance 44 Pothole 45 Path 46 Particulates 47 Air pollution 48 Rush hour 49 Road code 50 Two-way traffic 51 Street gutter 52 Cargo bike 53 Forestry vehicle 54 Construction vehicle 55 Semi-trailer truck 56 Trolleybus 57 Speed pedelec 58 Delivery vehicle 59 Idling 60 Tow truck 61 Four-wheel drive 62 Bicycle 63 Motorcycle equipment 64 Tram 65 Rail track 66 Caravan 67 Trailer 68 Tow hitch 69 Fire truck 70 Siren 71 Convoy 72 Emergency vehicle lighting 73 Agricultural machinery 74 Electric bicycle 75 Electric vehicle 76 Pedelec 77 Quadricycle 78 Microcar 79 All-terrain vehicle 80 Van 81 Recreational vehicle 82 Scooter 83 Trikke 84 Personal mobility device 85 Skateboard 86 Segway 87 Kick scooter 88 Roller skates 89 Mailman 90 Hitchhiker 91 Toddler 92 Child 93 Disability 94 Motorail 95 km/h 96 mph 97 Speedometer 98 Ride height 99 Dirt road 100 Driving ...