Cycling Safety

Top route tips

• Research your route.
• Avoid main highways.
• Cycling is not permitted on motorways.
• Consider using alternative transport to avoid busy roads.
• Use cycle paths or lanes, where provided.
• Ride only on the road or sign-posted cycle path (unless you’re delivering newspapers, mail or leaflets, or there is a sign indicating the footpath is a shared pedestrian and cycle path).
• Follow mountain bike tracks or rules in mountain bike parks so as not to disturb native bush

What to wear 

• Helmets for cyclists and motorcyclists must be worn at all times.
• Rear and front lights on cycles are required at night.
• Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing when cycling - you'll be easier to see.

Road rules 

• At intersections follow the rules for motor vehicles, or get off your cycle and walk across.
• If space allows, you can ride alongside another cyclist or moped. You must not ride alongside a car, truck or other motor vehicle.
• Ride in single file if passing another vehicle.
• Give a hand signal at least three seconds before stopping or turning.
• Only carry a pillion passenger on your cycle if you have a pillion seat and footrest. If you’re carrying a child, make sure the pillion seat protects the child's legs from the wheels.
• You must not leave a cycle blocking a footpath.
• Ride with lights on when it’s dark (from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise) or at other times of poor visibility, eg when it’s foggy.
• Keep your cycle in good working condition.

New Zealand cycling rules can be found online at the Transport NZ website(opens in new window)