Drivers, cyclists and e-scooter riders will face several changes to the road rules from next month, with a new package of changes covering overtaking, give way rules for buses and where two-wheeled road users can travel.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said the changes are intended to clarify the rules and reflect how Kiwis use roads and footpaths.
"More than 6,000 people took the time to have their say. We've listened carefully to that feedback and, in some cases, changed our proposals as a result," he said.
One of the biggest changes for motorists is a new universal 1.5m gap when passing cyclists, horse riders and other road users.
The rule was tweaked from what was originally proposed — a 1m gap in areas under 60km/h and 1.5m above that speed — after officials decided a single distance would be simpler and safer.
Previously, different gaps were required in different circumstances and speeds.
"That's clearer for drivers and safer for everyone," Bishop said.
Children aged 12 and under will also be legally able to ride their bikes on the footpath with an adult beside them.
Bishop said this is a common sense change.
"This change strikes the right balance between protecting young cyclists and ensuring footpaths remain safe for everyone who uses them."
Drivers will have a new give-way requirement around buses, having to yield to buses pulling out from bus stops on roads with speed limits of 60km/h or less. Documents show around half of people already believed this was a legal requirement, even though it wasn't previously mandated.
E-scooter riders will also be legally able to use cycle lanes.
A separate set of 44 minor technical changes to road signs and markings covering things like font sizes and the dimensions of road markings will also proceed, after being developed with industry and technical experts.
The new rules will take effect on October 1, 2026, following the necessary Orders in Council.
SHARE ME