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QuizTraffic rulesNew Zealand

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
New Zealand
True/false 17 New Zealand 28 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 595
What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

151. What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

The steering becomes lighter.
The wheels automatically straighten.
The power steering remains fully active.
✓ The steering lock may engage.

On vehicles fitted with a steering lock, removing the ignition key may allow the steering lock to engage. Never remove the key while the vehicle is moving.

Ignition key and vehicle steering lock
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

152. What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

Cross the painted separation area back to the exit.
Use an emergency opening in the central reservation.
✓ Continue to the next exit.
Move onto the shoulder and reverse carefully.

Never reverse or make a sudden manoeuvre. Continue safely and change your route at the next suitable exit.

Vehicle continuing past a motorway exit
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

153. What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

Immediately overtake them to get past the situation.
Drive closer so they notice your presence.
✓ Stay calm and avoid creating more danger.
Use your horn repeatedly to express your frustration.

Road users can make mistakes. Staying calm and reacting safely helps prevent crashes.

Driver responding to another road user's mistake
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

154. How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

✓ Brake earlier and more gradually than usual.
Brake later and more firmly than usual.
Brake sharply once you are close to stopping.
Use only one brake to avoid skidding.

Wet surfaces reduce grip and increase stopping distance. Smooth, early braking helps prevent skidding.

Cyclist braking on a wet road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

155. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

Use cruise control to maintain a constant speed.
Accelerate through the rain to clear it more quickly.
Use main beam to improve visibility.
✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking a slow-moving vehicle?

156. What should you do before overtaking a slow-moving vehicle?

Signal first and then check whether there is enough space.
Use your horn to make the driver move aside.
Follow another vehicle that starts overtaking ahead of you.
✓ Check that the road ahead is clear and that overtaking is safe.

Before overtaking, make sure you have enough visibility, space, and time. Signal clearly before moving out, do not exceed the speed limit, and never overtake if the road ahead is not clear.

Vehicle preparing to pass slow-moving traffic
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you switch off your fog lights?

157. When should you switch off your fog lights?

Never, because they always improve visibility.
✓ When visibility improves and they are no longer needed.
Only after the journey is finished.
When you enter a built-up area.

Fog lights can dazzle other road users when visibility is normal, so switch them off when conditions improve.

Fog-light control as visibility improves
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

158. What should you do when your view is blocked at a junction?

Look only in the direction traffic normally comes from.
Sound your horn and enter the junction.
✓ Slow down and proceed carefully.
Drive through quickly before other traffic appears.

If your view is blocked, slow down and make sure the way is clear before entering the junction.

Restricted view of approaching traffic at a junction
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

159. When should a passenger get on or off a motorcycle?

As soon as the engine has been started.
Before the rider has balanced the motorcycle.
Whenever the passenger feels ready.
✓ When the motorcycle is stationary and the rider is ready.

A passenger getting on or off can shift the motorcycle's balance suddenly. The motorcycle should be stationary and stable, and the passenger should wait until the rider is ready and prepared to support the extra movement.

Passenger getting onto a stationary motorcycle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

160. How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

✓ Securely, within load limits, without blocking visibility or lights.
Where it is easiest to reach while driving.
Anywhere, as long as the vehicle is not overloaded.
Loosely in the boot so it can move a little.

Unsecured or overloaded cargo can affect steering and braking, injure occupants during sudden stops, or fall into the road. It must not obstruct the driver's view or vehicle lights.

Luggage and cargo carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

161. Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

Small animals usually move away before you reach them.
Small animals have fast reaction times.
✓ You may lose control or collide with another road user.
The tyres can be damaged by sudden steering.

A sudden swerve can take you into another lane, off the road, or into nearby traffic.

Small animal in the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

162. Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

✓ It can reduce stability and place excessive strain on the vehicle.
It reduces tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
It makes the trailer easier to control.
It improves braking on steep roads.

Overloading can affect braking, steering, tyres, suspension, and trailer stability. Always remain within permitted limits. After loading, check that the load is secure and correctly distributed before starting your journey.

Loaded trailer and towing limits
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may ignore a stop sign if the road looks empty.

163. You may ignore a stop sign if the road looks empty.

✓ False.
True.

A stop sign means you must come to a complete stop, even if no other traffic is visible.

Stop sign at a quiet junction
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

164. What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

Keep driving if the vehicle still steers normally.
Hold the steering wheel more tightly and continue.
✓ Reduce speed and have the tyres, wheels, and steering checked.
Reduce the tyre pressure slightly to smooth the ride.

An unusual vibration may indicate tyre damage, wheel imbalance, loose components, or another mechanical fault. Reduce speed and arrange an inspection.

Driver experiencing vibration through the steering wheel
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of a pedestrian crossing?

165. What is the purpose of a pedestrian crossing?

To give pedestrians priority throughout the whole street.
To provide a place where vehicles may stop temporarily.
✓ To help pedestrians cross the road safely.
To separate pedestrians from cyclists along the road.

Pedestrian crossings provide a designated place where people can safely cross the road.

Pedestrian crossing across a road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand?

166. What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand?

1.6 mm.
2.0 mm.
1.0 mm.
✓ 1.5 mm.

The general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in New Zealand is 1.5 mm. Higher minimums may apply to winter tyres, during winter periods or in winter conditions.

Measuring tread depth on a vehicle tyre
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Must cars carry equipment for dealing with a puncture in New Zealand?

167. Must cars carry equipment for dealing with a puncture in New Zealand?

Yes.
✓ No.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a spare wheel or tyre repair kit.

Vehicle equipment for dealing with a puncture
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you approach a sharp bend on a mountain road?

168. How should you approach a sharp bend on a mountain road?

Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.
Overtake just before entering the bend.
✓ Reduce speed before the bend and remain in your lane.
Accelerate through the bend to maintain momentum.

Mountain bends may hide oncoming vehicles, cyclists, animals, or debris. Slow down before entering and keep a safe road position.

Sharp bend on a mountain road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

169. What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

Locks the steering.
Turns the starter motor.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Switches off all electrical accessories.

The ON position normally switches on the vehicle's electrical and ignition systems without operating the starter motor. The engine is started by turning the key further to the START position.

ON position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

170. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

They are recommendations rather than limits.
✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.
They apply only to road workers.
They apply only when traffic is congested.

Temporary speed limits may be used near roadworks, accidents, events, or dangerous conditions. They help keep traffic safe.

Temporary speed-limit sign at roadworks
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are reversing and making a U-turn on a motorway extremely dangerous?

171. Why are reversing and making a U-turn on a motorway extremely dangerous?

The vehicle may use more fuel during the manoeuvre.
The steering may become heavier while turning around.
✓ Other drivers approach quickly and do not expect traffic facing them.
Motorway cameras may not recognise the vehicle correctly.

Motorway traffic travels at high speed. Unexpected reversing or turning can cause a severe collision.

Vehicle on a motorway hard shoulder
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

172. What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

Wave your arms to frighten the birds away.
Stop near the nest to see why they are swooping.
Throw objects towards the birds.
✓ Slow down, stay calm, and leave the area without provoking them.

Some birds become territorial during the breeding season and may swoop people near their nests. Stay calm, avoid provoking or approaching the birds, and leave the area safely. If necessary and safe, dismount and walk your bicycle through or away from the area while keeping your helmet on.

Bird swooping near a cyclist
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

173. What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Continue slowly if the vehicle still responds normally.
Wait until the next service to have it checked.
Stop only if another warning light appears.

A red warning combined with an unusual noise may indicate a serious fault. Continuing could cause damage or loss of control.

Red dashboard warning requiring the driver's attention
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

174. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

175. Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

N (Neutral).
D (Drive).
P (Park).
✓ R (Reverse).

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive the vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before selecting Reverse.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

176. How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

✓ They increase the risk of aquaplaning.
They make steering more responsive in heavy rain.
They reduce the chance of skidding at low speeds.
They clear water from the road more effectively.

Tyre tread helps channel water away and maintain grip. Worn tyres cannot clear water as effectively, increasing stopping distance and the risk of aquaplaning.

Worn tyre tread and wet-road grip
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

177. Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

It can make the steering feel heavier.
It can make the tyres grip the road more strongly.
✓ It can reduce control and increase the risk of skidding.
It can make the vehicle accelerate more slowly afterwards.

Hard braking on a curve can upset the vehicle's balance and reduce grip. Slow down before the curve and steer smoothly.

Vehicle braking while negotiating a bend
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

178. How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

✓ By removing moisture from the air.
By increasing air recirculation.
By heating the rear window directly.
By opening the windows automatically.

Using the air conditioning can help demist the windows because it removes moisture from the cabin air. Directing this drier air towards the windscreen can clear condensation more quickly.

Air-conditioning controls used to demist the windscreen
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

179. What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

Cross behind it once the driver looks forward.
✓ Stay clear and make sure the driver can see you.
Walk behind it if it is reversing slowly.
Rely on the reversing sensors to make it stop.

Reversing vehicles have blind spots. Stay away from the vehicle and make sure the driver can see you.

Pedestrian near a reversing vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

180. Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

Reversing can interfere with the tunnel lighting.
Tunnel ventilation works only in the normal direction of travel.
✓ It can cause a serious collision with approaching traffic.
A U-turn can confuse the tunnel's traffic monitoring system.

Other drivers may not expect a vehicle to reverse or turn around. Only change direction when instructed by police or tunnel staff.

Vehicle manoeuvring inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

181. What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

For driving when the motorway is busy.
For overtaking slow-moving traffic.
✓ For emergencies and breakdowns.
For allowing faster vehicles to pass.

A motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder is primarily intended for emergencies and breakdowns, not normal driving. In some places it may be opened temporarily as a traffic lane when signs or signals specifically permit this.

Motorway hard shoulder beside the traffic lanes
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

182. Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
Both feet together.
Either foot at the same time.

In an automatic vehicle, the right foot should normally operate both the brake and accelerator pedals. The left foot should rest on the footrest to reduce the risk of pressing both pedals at the same time.

Right-foot control of an automatic vehicle's pedals
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

183. Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

✓ Vehicles behind may not have time to react.
It prevents the brake lights from working properly.
It makes the steering less responsive afterwards.
It makes the brakes less effective afterwards.

Sudden braking can surprise drivers behind you and increase the risk of a rear-end collision.

Following traffic and the risk of sudden braking
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic beyond a railway crossing is blocked?

184. What should you do if traffic beyond a railway crossing is blocked?

Follow the vehicle ahead closely across the tracks.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the tracks completely.
Cross quickly before the warning signals activate.
Enter the crossing and wait for traffic to move.

Never enter a railway crossing unless you can clear the tracks completely. If traffic ahead is blocked, wait before the crossing so you cannot become trapped on the railway.

Congested traffic beyond a railway crossing
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

185. Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

✓ The right foot.
The left foot for the brake and right foot for the accelerator.
The left foot.
Either foot.

In a manual vehicle, the right foot normally operates both the brake and accelerator pedals, while the left foot operates the clutch.

Pedal arrangement and foot controls in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

186. Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

The brakes may lock while the motorcycle is parked.
The engine may become difficult to start.
The chain may become too tight.
✓ The stand may sink into the ground and the motorcycle could fall.

On soft or unstable ground, the side or centre stand can sink or move, causing the motorcycle to fall. Park on a firm, stable surface or use a suitable support under the stand when necessary.

Motorcycle stand resting on soft ground
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

187. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

They can increase the motorcycle's engine temperature.
✓ They can provide less grip than the surrounding road.
They can prevent the indicators from working.
They can make the brakes overheat.

Wet painted road markings can provide less grip than the surrounding road surface. Ride smoothly over them and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering that could cause the tyres to lose grip.

Motorcycle approaching wet painted road markings
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

188. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.
Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.
Continue if the barriers are not fully closed.
Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when livestock are on the road?

189. What should you do when livestock are on the road?

✓ Slow down and follow the instructions of the person controlling them.
Use the verge to pass the animals.
Follow closely so other traffic can overtake.
Drive through the group before it spreads across the road.

Livestock may spread across the road, stop suddenly, or change direction without warning. Slow down, keep a safe distance, avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and follow any instructions from the person controlling the animals.

Livestock being moved along a road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

190. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

✓ False.
True.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

191. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Headlight flash.
Parking assistance.
Cruise control.
✓ Horn.

This symbol indicates the horn control. The horn is used to warn other road users of your presence when necessary.

Vehicle horn control and symbol
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

192. You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

True.
✓ False.

You should keep a safe following distance so you have enough time to react if traffic slows or stops suddenly.

Vehicle following closely behind another vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should happen after an airbag has deployed?

193. What should happen after an airbag has deployed?

The airbag can be reused if it is not torn.
Only the airbag warning light needs to be reset.
✓ The restraint system should be professionally inspected and repaired.
The airbag can be folded back into the dashboard.

A deployed airbag is a single-use safety component. After deployment, the restraint system should be professionally inspected and the airbag and any other affected components replaced or repaired as required before the system is relied upon again.

Deployed airbag inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid keeping the clutch pedal pressed while driving?

194. Why should you avoid keeping the clutch pedal pressed while driving?

It increases tyre pressure.
It locks the steering.
✓ It reduces engine braking and vehicle control.
It applies the parking brake.

Keeping the clutch pedal pressed while the vehicle is moving disconnects the engine from the transmission. This reduces engine braking and can reduce your control of the vehicle.

Clutch held down while a vehicle is moving
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

195. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Four-wheel-drive system.
Parking assistance.
Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system, which can transmit power to all four wheels. The exact symbol and operating modes vary between vehicles.

Four-wheel-drive system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

196. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
✓ Boot or tailgate release.
Window lock.
Bonnet release.

This symbol indicates the boot or tailgate release. Operating the control unlocks or opens the luggage compartment, depending on the vehicle.

Boot or tailgate release control
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which pedal is used to increase the vehicle's speed?

197. Which pedal is used to increase the vehicle's speed?

The brake pedal.
✓ The accelerator pedal.
The clutch pedal.
The footrest.

The accelerator pedal controls the amount of power delivered by the engine and is used to increase or maintain the vehicle's speed. It is the right-hand pedal.

Accelerator pedal in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

198. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
Speed limiter.
✓ Cruise control.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

199. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Anti-lock braking system.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Electronic stability control.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol relates to the electronic stability control (ESC) system. It may flash when the system is actively helping to maintain stability. If it remains illuminated, the system may be switched off or have a fault.

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

200. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-temperature warning.
✓ Low windscreen washer fluid.
Low coolant level.
Low tyre pressure.

This symbol indicates that the windscreen washer fluid level is low. Refill the washer-fluid reservoir with suitable fluid when possible.

Low washer-fluid warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA