However, like any foreign country, you should always do a bit of homework to ensure your travels aren't spoilt by an unwelcome surprise - what's more it's gracious and respectful to equip yourself with some local knowledge.

First things first you need to ensure you are legal to drive! If you have a current drivers license from your home country then you are good to go for 12 months which is plenty for most backpackers. However you must ensure your license is current, you can only drive the same type of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country, and if your license is not in English you must bring a translated English copy or obtain a IDP (International Driving Permit). Click here to visit the AA website for more information on obtaining an IDP. It is important to note that you must carry your license with you at all times when driving in New Zealand.

OK so your legal to drive so what do you need to know about the roads? Well throughout the year you can expect to encounter the full spectrum of hazards on New Zealand’s roads, there's also the odd quirky law thrown in for good measure. Here's out top ten issues facing visiting drivers, this is in no way an exhaustive list, nor does it include anything your mum might tell you such as 'wear a seatbelt' or 'don't drink and drive' those things are just plain obvious. These are just the 'biggies' that genuinely take a lot of visitors by surprise - to read more about driving rules and regulations see our FAQ section):

1. Give way to the right: Unlike other countries that drive on the left-hand side in New Zealand you are required to give way (yield) to traffic from the right. For example if you are travelling down a road indicating to turn left and an oncoming vehicle is indicating right to turn down the same road you must give way. This is a notoriously difficult regulation for visitors to pick up and causes experienced road users a lot of frustration as travellers cut in front of them.
2. Driving on the beach: If you haven't already you will at some point see a cool looking photo of a coach driving down 90 mile beach and think "Great we can do that!" think again. Driving on the beach, particularly in a campervan, is a very hazardous pursuit and could seriously lead to you and your vehicle parting company . . . permanently. We strongly advise against it no matter how tempting.
3. Unsealed roads: You may be advised to avoid unsealed roads, however the reality is that if you want to explore every nook and cranny of New Zealand it is unavoidable, and there are some beautiful spots to be found at the end of a dirt track. However do drive with caution and be sure to check the small print if you have any break-down cover - it may just be that they don't cover unsealed areas. Oh and make sure you have a spare tyre!
4. Changeable conditions: New Zealand is infamous for its changeable conditions. If you have completed or are planning on doing any tramping you are probably already aware that the weather can change in an instant, and it's no different on the roads. Always be aware of the current conditions and adjust your driving habits accordingly.
5. Parking: When parallel parking always ensure you park in the direction of traffic flow on your side of the street (i.e. always face forwards on the left side). It may seem pernickety, but failure to do so can lead to a fine, or even being towed away.
6. Unexpected hazards: Hmm that sounds a bit ambiguous, be alert for anything! Actually there are a number of areas in New Zealand where there are potential hazards that will be sign posted e.g. rock-falls, animals on the roads, flooding etc. Pay heed to these signs and don't assume everything is fine you may be the first (and only) vehicle down that particular road and there may well be a pile of rubble around the very next corner.
7. Use passing lanes: The roads in New Zealand can be particularly steep and winding, this makes tough going for heavy/ bulky campervans. Be aware that there could be people behind you waiting to pass, but rather than busting a gut to set a lightning pace, just be courteous and pull over into a passing lane where possible. Equally if you are in a car an find yourself behind a slow moving vehicle don't be tempted with an audacious overtaking move as oncoming traffic can be difficult to see, instead bide your time - passing lanes are often sign posted and never too far away.
8. One way bridges/ dual bridges: Occasionally you may find you may have to give way to oncoming traffic over certain bridges, always ensure you are prepared to stop right up until you are 100% certain there is no oncoming traffic, nobody likes a head on collision. Dual bridges, which are less common, are combined road and rail bridges - again always ensure your exit is clear before committing yourself.
9. Railway crossings: There are still a number of levels crossings on main roads throughout New Zealand. Many of these only have warning lights and bells and do not have barriers - take your eyes off the scenery for a second and make sure there is nothing coming.
10. Take your time: As much as anything else we encourage drivers to take their time when travelling through New Zealand, traffic on the whole is light and driving can be enjoyable and relaxing, this is truly one of the few places where getting from A to B is almost as much fun as being there!

For more information about purchasing your own campervan in New Zealand or driving and the rules of the road please refer to our FAQ's.