Priority over oncoming trafficNew Zealand
Traffic rules
New Zealand
1. Priority over oncoming traffic
Priority over oncoming traffic means that drivers travelling in one direction have priority through a narrow section of road over drivers approaching from the opposite direction. The rule is normally indicated by a priority sign facing one direction and a corresponding give-way sign facing the other.
Drivers with priority must still approach cautiously and must not force their way through when the passage is blocked or already occupied. The signs regulate priority through the narrow section, not speed, parking or priority at nearby intersections.
How is priority over oncoming traffic controlled in New Zealand?
At a New Zealand one-lane bridge, read the regulatory arrangement: the direction facing the red-bordered give-way control yields, while the blue priority indication identifies the other direction. Even on the priority side, wait for a vehicle already on the bridge to clear it.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — priority-over-oncoming-traffic
Can you enter an occupied narrow passage when you have priority in New Zealand?
Do not force a conflict. Check the full available width and let a vehicle already committed to the passage clear it when both vehicles cannot pass safely. A priority control does not permit creating danger or disregarding a red signal or authorised instruction.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — priority-over-oncoming-traffic
Does priority through a narrow passage extend to nearby junctions in New Zealand?
No. A control releasing your direction or giving priority over opposing traffic concerns that passage. Junction priority, speed limits, crossings and any later restriction must be assessed separately from their own signs and rules.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — priority-over-oncoming-traffic
Road narrowing, oncoming drivers have to give way.
English • R2-8 • Priority over oncoming vehicles. Your direction has priority through the narrow section or one-lane bridge. Proceed only when the passage is clear and safe.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Nzta.govt.nz • NZTA sign specifications • R2-8
🔗 Nzta.govt.nz • NZTA Traffic Control Devices Manual • Part 5, June 2026
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
New Zealand Transport Agency • NZTA-Sign-Spec • Source revision 2024-12-11. Wikimedia original unmodified.
