SlopeNew Zealand
10. Slope
A slope is a section of road that rises or descends noticeably. A steep slope can affect vehicle speed, braking distance, traction, visibility and the ability of heavy or low-powered vehicles to maintain a steady speed.
Warning signs may indicate a steep ascent or dangerous descent and may show the gradient as a percentage. Drivers should adjust their speed early, select a suitable gear and remain prepared for slow vehicles, bends and changing road conditions.
Wikimedia.org • Michal Klajban • CC BY-SA
What does a steep-slope warning mean in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s Road Code warns about steep hills and recommends a suitable gear for a descent. Reduce speed before the slope so that braking and engine braking can keep the vehicle controlled.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — slope
Warning for a steep ascent.
English • W14-10.1 • Steep ascent. A steep uphill section is ahead. Select a suitable gear and allow for slower vehicles.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Nzta.govt.nz • NZTA sign specifications • W14-10.1
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
New Zealand Transport Agency • NZTA-Sign-Spec • Source revision 2021-03-22. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for a steep descent.
English • W14-9.1 • Steep descent. A steep downhill section is ahead. Select a suitable gear and control your speed.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Nzta.govt.nz • NZTA sign specifications • W14-9.1
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
New Zealand Transport Agency • NZTA-Sign-Spec • Source revision 2021-03-22. Wikimedia original unmodified.
How should I approach a steep descent in New Zealand?
Reduce speed before the descent and select a suitable gear to help control the vehicle. Keep enough following distance and avoid building up speed that requires continuous heavy braking. A warning gives no fixed safe descent speed: the gradient, surface, visibility, load and vehicle can require a speed well below the legal maximum.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — slope
What should I check when meeting or overtaking on a slope in New Zealand?
Do not overtake if you cannot see enough clear road ahead. On a narrow section, follow any give-way or priority signs and use a suitable passing place rather than assuming the gradient warning decides priority.
🔗 nzta.govt.nz • New Zealand, NZTA official Road Code — slope

Traffic rules
New Zealand