Key riding skills

We drive on the left-hand side of the road in Aotearoa.

Signals tell other road users you're changing your direction or position on the road.

There are some other signals that road users will use to communicate to you. You must know what these signals are and what to do when you see them.

Turning can be dangerous because it often means you have to cross the path of other vehicles. Remember – turning traffic usually gives way to traffic that isn't turning.

Lanes are painted on the road to separate traffic. It’s important that you use lanes correctly.

It’s very important to make sure you have a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front, so you have enough time if you need to stop suddenly.

Many serious crashes on our roads are caused by dangerous passing.

Sometimes on a road, 2 lanes will merge into one lane. The lanes merge where the broken lane lines stop. It’s important to make sure that all vehicles from both lanes have plenty of space to merge safely. 

Motorways are designed so that traffic can flow with as little disruption as possible.

Most motorcycles don’t have a reverse gear or any form of reversing assistance, so you must be sure it’s safe before you manoeuvre backwards.