Driving Your Car Rental in Invercargill

Using a car rental in Invercargill offers you the freedom to do your own thing and explore the Southland region at your own pace. The roads in Invercargill are less busy than larger cities like Auckland, but emptier roads are not always safer roads, so take extra care and always look out for other road users.

If you’re new to New Zealand, make sure driving your car rental in Invercargill is safe and enjoyable with our safe driving tips.

Driving in Invercargill – The Basics

  • Drive on the LEFT hand side of the road
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle passengers
  • Open country speed limits are generally 100kph (about 60mph)
  • Town speed limits are 50kph (around 30mph) with a few areas designated 70kph
  • At intersections, drivers turning left must give way to all traffic crossing or approaching from your right
  • When turning at traffic lights, give way to pedestrians using the crossing
  • You must carry a current New Zealand or international/internationally approved driving licence when driving

We provide a ‘Driving Safely in New Zealand’ brochure with your car rental so please take a few minutes to read through this to familiarise yourself with the basics of driving in NZ. The Land Transport Safety Authority has more information on road safety in New Zealand as well as an online Road Code.

Invercargill Road Conditions

The Catlins Road linking Balclutha and Invercargill offers stunning coastal vistas and truly outstanding native flora and fauna. Care is needed at the many one-lane bridges as well as on the gravel sections of this route. Watch for logging trucks, which regularly use this road.

Many of the roads feeding onto the main highway network while sealed, can be narrow and without markings to direct drivers. Stay as close as possible to the left-hand side on these roads to avoid oncoming traffic. Watch for the gravel verges on many of these roads. If the wheels of your vehicle stray into these, stay calm and do not brake. Drive in a straight line and gradually steer your vehicle back onto the sealed road. Use the same technique if you get into a similar situation on gravel roads.

Winter Driving Tips

  • Ice and snow are likely on many Otago and Southland roads between April and September
  • Check the road conditions before you leave
  • Keep your SPEED DOWN

Discover the attractions, activities and highlights of Southland in one of our quality Invercargill rental cars.

Enjoy a safe car rental in Invercargill with driving safety tips from New Zealand Rent A Car.