Driving in New Zealand

Car Rental Greymouth New Zealand

Driving your rental car around Greymouth and the West Coast is generally not too challenging, because the roads are good, the traffic volumes are generally light and even more so than in the rest of New Zealand the natives are courteous and considerate.

There are however a few aspects of our roads that are unique to the Greymouth district and could catch the rental car driver unawares. One-way bridges are common in the Greymouth district, and something of a serious hazard. In New Zealand each one-way bridge has a sign indicating which traffic has right of way, but even if you do have that right of way, it pays to approach the bridge cautiously! Two of the one-way bridges in the Greymouth district, the Arahura and the Taramakau, are actually shared with the local railway line! These bridges are unique and are New Zealand tourist attractions in themselves.

The famous "Coast Road" between Greymouth and Westport (passing Punakaiki and the Pancake Rocks) provides a scenic drive that equals any in the world. However it is a route that follows a rugged coastline, with many tight corners and large drops over the sides of the road. It is a trip not to be missed in your rental car, but also one with which you must drive very carefully, as you'll be sharing the road with many others touring New Zealand in rental cars, tourist coaches, bicycles and campervans. Also using the road are heavy transport vehicles such as coal trucks and milk tankers. Be aware that late in the day, though the sunset may be beautiful, it can also be a hazard if the sun gets in your eyes unexpectedly!

The drive between Greymouth and the glacier region is also a lovely one, on good roads, passing through Hokitika and then lush farmlands and pristine native bush to reach first Franz Josef Glacier and then on to Fox Glacier. There are many picnic spots along the way, and many small towns to provide refreshment stops if required.

Enjoy your car rental in Greymouth and throughout New Zealand and remember on all roads in New Zealand, we drive on the left-hand side!

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