Land Transport Rule

Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016

Rule 41001

 

Wellington, New Zealand

PURSUANT to sections 152, 153(b) and (c), 155(a) and (b), 157(a), 159, and 160(4) of the Land Transport Act 1998, and after having had regard to the criteria specified in section 164(2) of that Act

I, Craig Foss, Associate Minister of Transport, make the following ordinary Rule:

Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016

SIGNED at Wellington

This 17th day of November 2016

Contents

Objective of the rule

Extent of consultation

Part 1 Requirements of Rule

Section 1 Title, commencement and application

Section 2 Responsibilities

Section 3 Vehicle requirements

Stability performance requirements: Static Roll Threshold

Section 4 Mass limits

Section 5 Permits for exceeding general access mass limits

Road controlling authority may issue permits

Section 6 Overdimension motor vehicles and overdimension loads

Requirements for all overdimension motor vehicles

Hazard warning equipment for overdimension vehicles

Travel restrictions for overdimension vehicles

Piloting requirements

Pilot vehicles

Overdimension permits

Part 2 Definitions and vehicle classes

Part 3 Schedules

Objective of the Rule

Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016 (the Rule) specifies requirements for dimension and mass limits for vehicles operating on New Zealand roads. It also includes some provisions that relate to the performance and operation of motor vehicles.

This Rule revokes and replaces Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002 (the 2002 Rule). It applies to all motor vehicles and cycles.

The Rule is designed to create a reasonable balance between the efficient operation of the heavy motor vehicle fleet, within the constraints imposed by the road network, and ensuring that heavy motor vehicles are operated safely. It does this by creating limits to the permitted configurations, dimensions and mass of vehicles, with particular emphasis on large combination vehicles.

The Rule clarifies and rationalises the existing requirements for vehicle dimension and mass limits. It also includes some limited increases in axle and gross mass limits from the limits in the 2002 Rule.

The Rule continues the distinction between dimension and mass limits for general access and the allowance to operate a vehicle with higher mass or with larger dimensions if a permit is obtained.

The Rule does not prescribe every situation; every driver and operator has a responsibility to exercise good judgement. This is consistent with the general responsibilities stated in sections 6, 7, 8 and 9 of the Land Transport Act 1998 (which relate to vehicle safety, driver responsibility, and the need to secure loads).

The issue of a permit under this Rule does not displace those general responsibilities. The Rule also does not displace a restriction imposed by other legislation. For example, general access limits do not allow a heavy vehicle to cross a bridge with a posted limit (fixed by a road controlling authority) that is lower than the vehicle’s actual gross mass.

Extent of consultation

Consultation on the Rule began with the release of a discussion document on 9 December 2015 outlining proposals for change to the 2002 Rule. Following this consultation, which closed on 17 February 2016, a proposed draft of the Rule (yellow draft) was prepared and released along with explanatory material on 8 July 2016. The NZ Transport Agency sent notice of the yellow draft by letter or email to approximately 1560 groups and individuals who had registered an interest in the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule.

One further proposal to amend the maximum width of two wheeled vehicles was consulted on separately as part of Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2016. The NZ Transport Agency released a draft Omnibus Amendment Rule (yellow draft) for this proposal, along with 34 other proposals for minor or technical amendments to various Land Transport Rules, on 15 July 2016. Notice of the Rule proposals were sent by letter or email to approximately 3170 groups and individuals who had registered an interest in the Rules to be amended.

The yellow drafts of both Rules were made available through the NZ Transport Agency’s Contact Centre and, together with Questions and Answers, were also available on the NZ Transport Agency’s website. The availability of the yellow drafts for comment was publicised in the daily newspapers in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin and in the New Zealand Gazette.

The NZ Transport Agency received 65 submissions on the yellow draft of the Rule and 35 submissions on the yellow draft of the Omnibus Amendment Rule, of which 17 commented on the proposal to amend the maximum width of two wheeled vehicles. The submissions received were taken into account in finalising the draft Rule. The proposed Rule was then submitted to the Associate Minister of Transport for signing.

Part 1 Requirements of Rule

Section 1 Title, commencement, and application

1.1 Title

This Rule is Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016.

1.2 Commencement and revocation

1.2(1) This Rule comes into force on 1 February 2017.

1.2(2) Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002 is revoked.

1.3 Application of the Rule

1.3(1) This Rule applies to—

1.3(2) Except as otherwise provided in this Rule, reference to the dimensions and mass of a vehicle is a reference to that vehicle including any load, load restraints, fittings, attachments, equipment, and accessories.

1.3(3) If there is a conflict between a provision of this Rule and the corresponding provision of a document incorporated by reference in the Rule, the provision of this Rule applies.

1.3(4) If there is a conflict between a provision of this Rule and a provision of Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, the provision of Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002 applies.

1.3(5) In Part 1 of Schedule 3

1.4 Transitional and savings provisions

The transitional and savings provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms.

[Note: In this Rule, dimensions of less than one metre are expressed in millimetres (mm). Dimensions of one metre or more are expressed in metres (m).]

Section 2 Responsibilities

2.1 Responsibilities of operators

2.1(1) A person who operates a vehicle must ensure that the vehicle complies with this Rule.

2.1(2) A person who operates a motor vehicle under an overweight permit, a high-productivity motor vehicle permit, or a specialist vehicle permit, that is issued under section 5 must comply with—

2.1(3)  A person who operates an overdimension motor vehicle must comply with the applicable operating requirements in section 6.

2.1(4) A person must, if required by section 6, obtain a permit prior to operating an overdimension motor vehicle.

2.1(5) A person who operates an overdimension motor vehicle under a permit issued under section 6 must comply with—

2.2 Responsiblities of modifiers

A person who modifies a motor vehicle must—

2.3 Responsibilities of vehicle inspectors and inspecting organisations

A vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation must not certify a motor vehicle under Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002 if they have reason to believe that the vehicle does not comply with section 3 or 6 of this Rule.

2.4 Responsibilities of manufacturers

A person who manufactures a motor vehicle, or installs fittings or attachments to that vehicle, must ensure that the relevant requirements of this Rule are complied with.

[Note: A breach of a responsibility in this section is an offence, as provided in the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999, and is subject to a penalty as specified in those regulations.]

Section 3 Vehicle requirements

3.1 Operation of a vehicle

3.1(1) A vehicle and its load must comply with the dimension and performance requirements in this Rule.

3.1(2) A vehicle must be manoeuvrable, fit safely on a road, and interact safely with road users for the route on which it operates.

3.1(3) The distribution of the gross mass of a motor vehicle over its axles, and the position of the centre of gravity of the vehicle, must ensure that the dynamic handling characteristics of the vehicle remain safe in terms of stability and steering manoeuvres for the design speed of the road on which the vehicle operates.

3.1(4) A vehicle including an overdimension motor vehicle of excess height that complies with the operating conditions in Part 3 of Schedule 6, must not be operated on a road if it or its load is likely to damage any wires, cables or construction lawfully on, over or alongside that road.

3.2 Dimension requirements

3.2(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section and in Schedule 1, a vehicle must comply with the applicable dimension requirements in Schedule 2, and with other applicable requirements in this section.

3.2(2) An overdimension motor vehicle that does not comply with a dimension requirement in Schedule 2 must comply with the requirements applicable to its overdimension category and its height in section 6, and:

3.2(3) A vehicle does not have to comply with the height and ground clearance requirements in Schedule 2 if—

3.2(4) A heavy motor vehicle that does not comply with a dimension requirement in Schedule 2 that is listed in 5.9(5) may operate on a road—

3.3 Flags, hazard warning panels, and lamps for projecting loads

3.3(1) Other than during the hours of darkness, a vehicle transporting a projecting load that extends more than 1 m to the rear of, or more than 1 m forward from, or more than 200 mm out from the side of, the body of the vehicle must indicate the projection by displaying—

3.3(2) During the hours of darkness, a vehicle transporting a projecting load that extends more than 1 m to the rear of, or more than 1 m forward from, or more than 200 mm out from the side of, the body of the vehicle may display the flags or hazard warning panels required in 3.3(1) and must be fitted with, and operated with, the following lamps:

3.3(3) A lamp in 3.3(2) must be clearly visible in clear weather at a distance of at least 200 m during the hours of darkness.

3.3(4) An overdimension motor vehicle that is required in 3.3(1) to display a flag or hazard warning panel to indicate a projecting load must instead of complying with 3.3(1) display hazard warning flags and panels as required by 6.14 to 6.17.

3.3(5) An overdimension motor vehicle that is required in 3.3(2) to be fitted with, and operate, lamps to indicate a projecting load must instead of complying with 3.3(2) comply with the lighting requirements in 6.19.

3.3(6) A motor vehicle or its load must not display a hazard warning flag unless—

3.3(7) A motor vehicle must not display a hazard warning panel unless—

3.4 Exceptions to width limits

The following items are not included in determining whether a vehicle complies with the width requirements in Schedule 2:

3.5 Exceptions to length limits

3.5(1) A bicycle rack fitted to the front of a bus of Class MD3, MD4, or ME is not included in determining the overall length or forward-distance of the bus if the vehicle’s low speed turning performance has been verified by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation as meeting the requirements specified in 3.5(2) and the vehicle including any load or equipment carried by or attached to the vehicle does not exceed the maximum dimensions specified by the vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation.

3.5(2) A vehicle’s low speed turning performance, for the purpose of 3.5(1), must—

3.5(3) In determining the overall length of a vehicle, up to 50 mm of any ferry securing point that extends beyond the body of the vehicle may be disregarded.

3.5(4) A collapsible mirror is not included in determining the overall length or forward-distance of a vehicle.

3.6 Exceptions to height limits

3.6(1) The load height of a towing vehicle and of a trailer that has an open load platform or that has a load platform or body that does not fully enclose the load (in a vertical orientation) may be restricted if necessary to ensure that the vehicle complies with the SRT requirements in 3.15 to 3.17.

3.6(2) Trolley bus poles, when extended to collect electric power from an overhead conducting wire, are not included in determining whether a vehicle complies with the height requirements in Schedule 2.

3.6(3) Ground clearance for a heavy motor vehicle does not include flexible mudflaps, wheels, tyres or devices designed to discharge static electricity.

Vehicle configuration requirements

3.7 General vehicle requirements

3.7(1) An articulated bus must be able to complete a 360-degree turn in either direction without any part of the vehicle, except for collapsible mirrors, encroaching within a concentric internal radius of 5.3 m.

3.7(2) In carrying out a 360-degree turn within a 25m diameter, as specified in Schedule 2, no part of a vehicle in a combination, other than its articulation mechanism, may come into contact with the other vehicle in the combination.

3.7(3) A towing vehicle and full trailer combination that complies with all of the dimension requirements in Schedule 2 must be fitted with an adjustable or removable rear underrun protection device if—

3.7(4) A rear underrun protection device fitted to a vehicle in 3.7(3) must be certified by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation as meeting the technical requirements of UN/ECE Regulation 58: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of: I. Rear underrun protective devices (RUPDs), II. Vehicles with regard to the installation of an RUPD of an approved type, III. Vehicles with regard to their rear underrun protection (RUP).

3.8 Drawbars and drawbeams

3.8(1) Clauses 3.8(2) to 3.8(5) apply to a drawbar or a drawbeam between a towing vehicle and a full trailer.

3.8(2) A drawbar must have only one operating position and must not be retractable or extendable, except as described in 3.8(3) or 3.8(4).

3.8(3) A drawbar may be retractable if—

3.8(4) A drawbar on a trailer that is used to transport logs may have up to three fixed positions and one sliding position if the drawbar has—

3.8(5) A drawbeam must not be sliding or adjustable.

3.9 Axle requirements for heavy motor vehicles

3.9(1) A heavy rigid motor vehicle must be supported by—

3.9(2) A heavy motor vehicle must not have any rear steering axles except for the following:

3.9(3) A mobile crane must have at least one rear axle locked so that it is non-steering when the mobile crane is being operated on a road.

3.9(4) A rigid motor vehicle or semi-trailer fitted with rear steering axles must comply in all configurations with the rear overhang requirements and forward-distance requirements in Schedule 2.

3.9(5) The axle sets, except a twin-steer axle set, of a heavy motor vehicle must be load sharing.

3.9(6) If a tandem axle set has a single large-tyred axle with a load-share ratio of 60%:40% or 55%:45%, the manufacturer of the vehicle must securely affix to the vehicle an indelible plate, so that it is clearly visible to a person who is weighing the vehicle, that specifies the—

3.10 Trailer requirements

3.10(1) An A-train must have—

3.10(2) A semi-trailer must be supported by one axle set only, which must be set towards the rear of the vehicle and must be—

3.10(3) A semi-trailer with a quad-axle set must have a single rear steering axle that—

3.10(4) A semi-trailer with a quad-axle set containing a steering axle must be certified for compliance with 3.10(3) by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation.

3.10(5) The axle set towards the front of a full trailer must—

3.10(6) The axle set towards the rear of a full trailer must be—

3.10(7) A simple trailer must be supported by—

3.10(8) A pole trailer with one axle set may only carry poles or long loads that are not part of the trailer, and must be supported by a single axle set, a tandem axle set, or a tri-axle set.

3.10(9) A pole trailer with two axle sets must have—

3.11 Retractable axles

A heavy motor vehicle, other than an A-train or a B-train, may have a retractable axle if—

3.12 Certain overdimension vehicles do not have to comply with all axle requirements

3.12(1) Except as specified in 3.12(2), a specialist overdimension motor vehicle or a motor vehicle designed principally to transport an overdimension load or an overweight load or both, does not have to comply with the axle requirements in 3.9 to 3.11.

3.12(2) A specialist overdimension motor vehicle, or a motor vehicle designed principally to transport an overdimension load or an overweight load or both, must have axle sets that are load sharing, except—

Towing requirements

3.13 Types of trailer

A trailer must be of one of the following types:

3.14 Tow spacing

3.14(1) The inter-vehicle spacing between a towing vehicle and a full trailer, when in a straight line, must not be less than the greater of 1 m or half the width of the foremost point of the trailer (including its load but excluding the drawbar and front dolly assembly).

3.14(2) A light motor vehicle must not tow more than one trailer except if—

3.14(3) A heavy motor vehicle must not tow more than one trailer, except if that vehicle is—

3.14(4) A light motor vehicle must not tow a heavy trailer if the gross mass of the trailer exceeds—

3.14(5) A light passenger service vehicle must not tow a trailer that has a gross vehicle mass of 2,000 kg or more.

3.14(6) A heavy passenger service vehicle must not tow a trailer that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3,500 kg.

3.14(7) An articulated bus must not tow a trailer.

3.14(8) A heavy rigid vehicle must not tow more than one heavy rigid vehicle that is without power.

3.149) A heavy rigid vehicle must not tow both a trailer and a rigid vehicle without power unless—

3.14(10) A heavy rigid vehicle must not tow two rigid vehicles without power unless—

3.14(11) A heavy vehicle recovery service vehicle may tow a heavy motor vehicle that has become disabled while on a roadway, and any attached trailers, to the nearest safe area, taking account of traffic volume, vehicle load, and the ability to undertake repair safely at the roadside, off the roadway (that is accessible without contravening any bridge weight limit including posted limits) and does not have to—

Stability performance requirements: Static Roll Threshold

Note: Static Roll Threshold (SRT) performance requirements for heavy motor vehicles are intended to ensure stability when negotiating corners within posted advisory speeds and when undertaking evasive manoeuvres to avoid a collision.

3.15 Compliance with minimum Static Roll Threshold (SRT)

3.15(1) A vehicle of Class NC or Class TD, whether laden or unladen, must comply with an SRT of at least 0.35 g unless the vehicle is—

3.15(2) For the avoidance of doubt, a high-productivity motor vehicle must comply with the minimum SRT requirements except, if the vehicle is a vehicle with a tipping body, when the tipping body is raised for the purpose of discharging a load at low speed.

3.15(3) A vehicle of Class TD that is first registered on or after 1 July 2002 and is required to comply with an SRT of at least 0.35 g must be certified for SRT in accordance with 3.16 to 3.18 if it has a body height or load height above the ground that exceeds 2.8 m.

3.16 Methods for determining SRT

3.16(1) SRT must be determined by one of the following methods:

3.16(2) The Agency may approve a method for estimating the SRT of a vehicle if the method is proven to be an effective method for generating a reasonably accurate estimate of the SRT of a vehicle that is consistent with the outcomes of the test in 3.16(1)(a).

3.17 Determining the appropriate loading of a vehicle for different load types

3.17(1) The following methodology must be applied to determine the appropriate vehicle loading:

3.17(2) The combination of load height and load mass in 3.17(1) applies for a particular standard type of loading that must be appropriate for the particular type of deck or body with which a heavy motor vehicle is fitted, and must be one of the following types of load:

3.17(3) If the deck or body fitted on a heavy motor vehicle is changed to allow a different type of load to be carried, the SRT must be determined, and the vehicle recertified, for the new loading.

3.17(4) A motor vehicle with a retractable axle or axles must be assessed using a method in 3.16 with its axles in a non-retracted position.

3.17(5) The maximum allowable load height for logs must be determined by—

3.18 Certifying results of SRT test

3.18(1) SRT test results must be—

3.18(2) SRT test results must be displayed on a vehicle’s certificate of loading—

Note: X1/Y1 represents the maximum allowable load height (X1) of the vehicle that is used to calculate the maximum safe gross mass (Y1) of the vehicle to meet an SRT of 0.35 g.  Y2/X2 represents the maximum allowable gross mass (Y2) of the vehicle when loaded that is used to calculate the maximum safe load height (X2) of the vehicle to meet an SRT of 0.35 g.  The procedure is fully explained in 3.17.

Section 4 Mass Limits

4.1 Vehicle mass requirements for general access

Requirements for vehicle mass are divided into general access (where the vehicle can operate without a permit, subject to any specific route or bridge restrictions) and heavier mass allowances which are only available where a permit to exceed general access limits has been issued to the vehicle operator in accordance with section 5.

4.2 Calculating allowable gross mass

4.2(1) The gross mass limit that applies to a heavy motor vehicle is the lower of the totals derived under 4.2(2) and 4.2(3).

4.2(2) The gross mass of a heavy motor vehicle must not exceed the gross mass limit that is—

4.2(3) The gross mass of a heavy motor vehicle must not exceed the lowest total derived from the following gross mass limits:

4.3 Limits set by vehicle configuration

4.3(1) The combined gross mass of an A-train must not exceed 39,000 kg.

4.3(2) The combined gross mass of a towing vehicle and a pole trailer, a towing vehicle and a semi-trailer, or a B-train must not exceed 39,000 kg.

4.3(3) Clause 4.3(2) does not apply if the towing vehicle has—

4.3(4) The combined gross mass of a towing vehicle and a full trailer must not exceed 39,000 kg.

4.3(5) Clause 4.3(4) does not apply if the towing vehicle has—

4.3(6) The combined gross mass of a towing vehicle and a full trailer must not exceed 42,000 kg.

4.3(7) Clause 4.3(6) does not apply if—

4.3(8) Unless 4.3(9) applies, the combined gross mass of a towing vehicle and a simple trailer must not exceed 36,000 kg.

4.3(9) The combined gross mass of a towing vehicle and a simple trailer that meets the following requirements must not exceed 40,000 kg:

4.3(10) A heavy motor vehicle operating under general access limits that does not have at least 7 axles and a distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle of 16.8 m or more must not exceed the gross axle mass limits in Table 2.1 of Schedule 3.

4.3(11) A heavy motor vehicle operating under general access limits that has at least 7 axles and a distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle of 16.8 m or more—

4.4 Axle mass limits

A heavy motor vehicle must not exceed the lowest of the mass limits applicable to an axle and an axle set derived from the following axle mass limits:

4.5 Mass ratio of towed and towing vehicles for heavy combination vehicles

4.5(1) For an A-train, a B-train, or a rigid vehicle towing two vehicles, the gross mass of the rearmost vehicle must not exceed 1.5 times the gross mass of the towing vehicle and the first towed vehicle, that is:

4.5(2) For all other heavy combination vehicles, except those operating under an overweight permit with a vehicle axle index exceeding 1.1, or those restricted to an operating speed of 40 km/h or less, the gross mass of the towed vehicle must not exceed 1.5 times the gross mass of the towing vehicle, that is:

4.6 Steering mass ratio

The mass on the front axle set or twin-steer axle set of a heavy rigid vehicle must, at all times, be at least 20% of the sum of the axle mass of the heavy rigid motor vehicle.

4.7 Mass and weight

The mass limits for axles, axle sets, and gross mass specified in this Rule may be measured as weight (kg).

Note: Section 4 and Part 1 (axle mass) and Part 2 (gross mass) of Schedule 3 describe limits for vehicles operating under general access. Section 5 and Part 3 (axles) and Part 4 (gross mass) of Schedule 3 describe limits for vehicles operating under a HPMV or specialist vehicle permit.

Gross mass limits are designed to manage the impact of heavy vehicles on bridges and other road infrastructure. Axle limits are designed to manage the impact of heavy vehicles on pavements.

This section deals with axles fitted with standard tyres. Axles fitted with specialist wide profile tyres must also meet these limits but may apply for a permit to exceed the Schedule 3 limits on the basis of their vehicle axle index.]

Section 5 Permits for exceeding general access mass limits

5.1 Motor vehicle requires permit to exceed mass limits

5.1(1) A motor vehicle must not exceed the mass limits in section 4 unless it is operating under a permit in one of the following categories:

5.1(2) The fee for the issue of a permit under this section is—

Road controlling authority may issue permits

5.2 Criteria for issuing permits

5.2(1) A road controlling authority must, before issuing a permit under this section, consider—

5.2(2) A road controlling authority may, in considering whether a permit should be issued, have regard to any breaches of conditions of any permit previously issued to the operator, under this Rule, or Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002, and other traffic offending history of the operator.

5.2(3) A road controlling authority must not issue a permit under this section for a vehicle to exceed vehicle design mass limits, including those specified in 4.2(3)(a) and (b).

5.2(4) A permit issued under this section may specify additional conditions under which the vehicle may be operated that the road controlling authority considers necessary to ensure the safety of road users, the protection of infrastructure, or to provide for compliance with the permit (including tracking systems that allow the vehicle to be checked for route and mass limit compliance).

5.3 Roads under the control of other road controlling authorities

5.3(1) Before a road controlling authority (the issuing authority) issues a permit under this section that allows a vehicle to operate on a route that includes a road under the control of a second road controlling authority, the issuing authority must obtain the written approval of the second road controlling authority, given in accordance with 5.3(2).

5.3(2) If an approval is required by 5.3(1), a second road controlling authority may approve the issue of a permit by an issuing authority for travel on roads under the second road controlling authority’s control if that road controlling authority has considered, for those roads—

5.4 Form of permit

5.4(1) A permit issued under this section must—

5.4(2) A permit may include other information as specified in Schedule 4.

5.5 Operating under a permit

5.5(1) A vehicle operating under a permit issued under this section must comply with the following critical conditions:

Note: If a critical condition of a permit is breached, the applicable penalties are both the penalty for breach of this clause and the penalty for overloading specified in the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999.

5.5(2) A permit issued under this section must—

5.6 Validity of a permit

5.6(1) A permit issued under this section is invalid if it is altered without the authority of the road controlling authority which issued the permit.

5.6(2) A permit only applies to the vehicles identified either individually or by type in the permit.

5.6(3) A permit is invalid if the vehicle is not being operated by the person named on the permit.

5.7 Revocation of a permit

5.7(1) A road controlling authority may revoke a permit issued by it under this section if it considers that—

5.7(2) Without limiting (or being limited by) the power to revoke a permit in 5.7(1), the Agency may revoke a permit issued under this section if the Agency considers there is a significant risk to public safety.

5.7(3) Revocation of a permit must be advised as soon as is practicable to the operator of the vehicle by the road controlling authority or the Agency as applicable, providing reasons for the revocation.

5.7(4) A revocation of a permit takes effect immediately after it is advised to the operator or at such later time as is specified.

5.8 Permits for overweight vehicles transporting indivisible loads

5.8(1) A road controlling authority may issue a permit under this clause for a heavy motor vehicle that:

5.8(2) Indivisible loads may be transported on a combination vehicle.

5.8(3) Despite 5.8(1)(b)(i), a permit may be issued under 5.8(1) for the following divisible loads:

5.8(4) A road controlling authority may, before issuing a permit under 5.8(1), consider the vehicle axle index for the purpose of establishing the effect of the vehicle mass on roads and bridges.

5.8(5) A permit issued under 5.8(1) may specify the following additional conditions:

5.8(6) A vehicle operating under a permit issued under 5.8(1) must comply with the following conditions:

5.9 Permits for high-productivity motor vehicles

5.9(1) A road controlling authority may issue a permit under this clause for a high-productivity motor vehicle that carries a divisible or indivisible load to—

5.9(2) Before a permit may be issued for a high-productivity motor vehicle to operate a vehicle with a variation from a dimension requirement in Schedule 2, that variation must be approved by the Agency.

5.9(3) A high-productivity motor vehicle permit may specify axle, axle set, or gross mass limits that—

5.9(4) The axle and axle set requirements for the issue of a high-productivity motor vehicle permit to exceed a gross mass limit of 44,000 kg are:

5.9(5) For the purposes of 5.9(2), the Agency, or an organisation or a person appointed by the Agency, may approve, for use as a high-productivity motor vehicle, a vehicle having a variation from any of the following dimension requirements in Schedule 2:

5.9(6) In approving a variation under 5.9(5), the Agency or an organisation or person appointed by the Agency, must be satisfied that the vehicle has the equivalent safety performance as a standard motor vehicle for the proposed roads to be used under the permit, and may impose any conditions it considers necessary to ensure this.

5.9(7) The effect of an approval under 5.9(5) is that the vehicle is deemed to comply with the dimension requirements of this Rule when operated within any conditions contained in the approval (such as restrictions on combinations with other heavy vehicles).

5.9(8) A vehicle operating as a high-productivity motor vehicle must comply with the following conditions:

5.9(9) For the avoidance of doubt, the operator of a high-productivity motor vehicle issued with a permit under 5.9(1) does not have to comply with the requirements in section 6.

5.10 High-productivity motor vehicle sign

5.10(1) A high-productivity motor vehicle sign that is displayed on a high-productivity motor vehicle must—

5.10(2) A motor vehicle must not display a high-productivity motor vehicle sign unless it has a permit for a high-productivity motor vehicle.

5.11 Permits for specialist vehicles

5.11(1) A road controlling authority may issue a permit for a specialist vehicle that is identified in 5.11(2).

5.11(2) A permit for a specialist vehicle must only be issued for one of the following types of vehicle:

5.11(3) A permit may be issued under 5.11(1) for a specialist vehicle to operate on the routes specified in the permit with axle set mass limits of not more than the mass limits prescribed in Table 3.6 of Part 3 of Schedule 3.

5.11(4) A specialist vehicle operating under a permit must comply with the following conditions:

Note: Heavy motor vehicles that operate at axle masses higher than those stated in Part 1 of Schedule 3 (General Access), or gross mass limits that exceed the limits stated in Part 2 (General Access), or that exceed the length limits in Schedule 2 and transport a divisible load require a permit issued under this section to exceed those limits.
The Agency is the road controlling authority for the state highway network.

Section 6 Overdimension motor vehicles and overdimension loads

6.1 Application of this section

6.1(1) This section applies to—

6.1(2) This section does not apply to—

6.2 Responsibilities of operators of overdimension vehicles and loads

6.2(1) A vehicle in 6.1(1) must comply with the requirements in this section when operating on a road.

6.2(2) An operator of an overdimension vehicle or load that requires a permit under this section is responsible for ensuring that the vehicle used to transport the load is suitable and complies with the requirements of this Rule.

[Note: Overdimension vehicles have various constraints placed on them, which are determined by their category (determined by width and other dimension characteristics), the routes they use, and the time of day they travel. Generally, the larger the vehicle the more constraints imposed. Larger vehicles (in higher numbered categories) require permits from the Agency before they travel. ‘Overdimension load’ and ‘overdimension motor vehicle’ are defined terms.]

6.3 Classification of vehicles into categories

In this section, Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, and Category 4 are categories into which an overdimension vehicle is classified according to its width, forward-distance, length, front overhang, and rear overhang dimensions as specified in Part 1 and Part 2 of Schedule 6.

6.4 Certain vehicle configurations affect calculation of dimensions

6.4(1) If an overdimension motor vehicle is operated with a manned steering jinker or a pole trailer, the rear overhang is measured between the centre of the rear turntable load support and the rearmost part of the load.

6.4(2) If the vehicle combination includes a load-sharing trailer, the load-sharing trailer does not have to be included in forward-distance calculations if the forward-distance is 3.5 m or less. If the forward-distance exceeds 3.5 m, this distance must be added to the forward-distance of the main trailer, less 3.5 m.

6.4(3) If the vehicle combination includes a manned steering jinker, the forward-distance used for determining the vehicle’s category is half the distance between the two turntables supporting the load.

6.5 Standard motor vehicles transporting overdimension loads

6.5(1) A standard motor vehicle may transport an overdimension load that exceeds the dimension limits specified in Schedule 2, provided that the load—

6.5(2) A standard motor vehicle may transport an overdimension load in addition to a divisible load, provided that the divisible load does not exceed—

6.5(3) A standard motor vehicle may transport more than one overdimension load, if the loads:

6.5(4) Despite 6.5(1)(a), a standard motor vehicle may transport a divisible load of—

6.5(5) Despite 6.5(2), a standard motor vehicle may transport the disassembled parts of a crane boom if—

6.5(6) The following combination motor vehicles must not exceed the rear overhang or overall length limits in Schedule 2 when transporting an overdimension load:

6.6 Specialist overdimension motor vehicles

6.6(1) A motor vehicle that is designed for a primary purpose of carrying out a specialist function that requires overdimension equipment (not to transport overdimension or overweight loads) is a specialist overdimension motor vehicle and may exceed the dimension limits in Schedule 2, if—

6.6(2) A specialist overdimension motor vehicle of a type specified in 6.6(1) that is transporting a divisible load may not exceed the dimension limits in Schedule 2 if those limits can be complied with by reducing the vehicle’s divisible load.

6.7 Motor vehicles designed primarily to transport overdimension and overweight loads

6.7(1) A motor vehicle designed primarily to transport an overdimension or overweight load, or both, may transport a load that exceeds the dimension limits in Schedule 2, provided that the load—

6.7(2) A motor vehicle in 6.7(1) may transport more than one overdimension load, provided that the loads—

6.7(3) If two or more overdimension loads have the same departure and destination points, and one of the loads exceeds 5 m in width, the loads may be carried one behind the other on a semi-trailer, provided that—

6.7(4) A motor vehicle in 6.7(1) must be reduced to the smallest dimension practicable if it is not transporting an overdimension load.

6.7(5) A motor vehicle in 6.7(1) must not transport a divisible load, unless—

6.7(6) A motor vehicle to which 6.7(5) applies may transport divisible loads provided that the loads, if loaded:

Requirements for all overdimension motor vehicles

6.8 General operating requirements for overdimension motor vehicles

6.8(1) An overdimension motor vehicle must—

6.8(2) An overdimension motor vehicle must comply with the requirements relevant to its category specified in Part 1 of Schedule 6 for hazard warning equipment, travel time restrictions, and piloting requirements, unless 6.9 or 6.28 applies.

6.8(3) A motor vehicle that exceeds 4.3 m in height must comply with the requirements relevant to its height in Part 3 of Schedule 6.

6.8(4) An overdimension motor vehicle must not travel on a road if fog, heavy rain, hail, or any other factor restricts ambient visibility to less than 350 m.

6.8(5) If, after an overdimension vehicle has begun its journey, ambient visibility is reduced to less than 350 m, the vehicle must, at the earliest opportunity, be stopped clear of moving traffic until ambient visibility is at least 350 m.

6.8(6) An overdimension motor vehicle must be operated with due consideration for other road users and, where it is safe to do so, other road users must be allowed to pass the vehicle at the earliest opportunity.

6.8(7) An overdimension motor vehicle transporting a load that exceeds 30 m in length must use a rear steering facility.

6.9 Certain Category 2 overdimension motor vehicles may operate in accordance with Category 1 requirements

6.9(1) A Category 2 overdimension motor vehicle may be operated in accordance with the operating requirements for a Category 1 overdimension motor vehicle if the vehicle’s swept path performance has been verified by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation as meeting the swept path performance of a Category 1 overdimension motor vehicle specified in 6.9(2), and the vehicle including any load or equipment carried by or attached to the vehicle does not exceed the maximum dimensions specified by the vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation.

6.9(2) The maximum swept path of a Category 1 overdimension motor vehicle, for the purpose of 6.9(1), must—

6.10 Interference with traffic control devices, structures, or foliage

6.10(1) If an overdimension motor vehicle interferes with or damages a traffic control device, bridge, tunnel or other structure, or trees or other foliage, the operator must notify the road controlling authority or the owner of the item.

6.10(2) A traffic control device may be removed temporarily to allow safe passage of an overdimension motor vehicle if the traffic control device is immediately re-erected in its original position after the vehicle has passed that position on the road.

6.10(3) If a traffic control device that has been temporarily removed to allow safe passage of an overdimension motor vehicle is not re-erected in its original position, the operator of the vehicle must notify the road controlling authority or the person responsible for the traffic control device.

6.11 On-road supervisor must notify emergency services

The on-road supervisor of an overdimension motor vehicle or, if no on-road supervisor is designated, the driver of an overdimension motor vehicle must notify the emergency services that are operating in the area where the vehicle or its load is likely to restrict a route in a way that would significantly delay the emergency services.

6.12 Enforcement officer, Agency, or road controlling authority may limit or prohibit use of road by particular vehicle

If an enforcement officer, the Agency, or a road controlling authority believes on reasonable grounds that an overdimension motor vehicle does not comply with a condition imposed under this section or that a prohibition is necessary in the interests of safety or traffic management, that person may—

6.13 Motor vehicles exceeding 25 m in overall length must not travel over level crossing without permission

6.13(1) The operator of an overdimension motor vehicle that has an overall length exceeding 25 m must not permit that vehicle to travel over a level crossing unless the operator has obtained written permission from the access provider.

6.13(2) Evidence of permission obtained for the purpose of 6.13(1) must be—

Hazard warning equipment for overdimension vehicles

6.14 Hazard warning flags

6.14(1) Unless 6.17(1) applies, a hazard warning flag displayed on an overdimension motor vehicle as required in Part 1 of Schedule 6

6.14(2) An overdimension motor vehicle in Category 1 that is required to display a hazard warning flag during daylight hours must display instead warning panels as specified in 6.15(1), if it is travelling during the hours of darkness.

6.15 Hazard warning panels

6.15(1) Unless 6.17(2), or 6.17(3), or 6.17(4) applies, a hazard warning panel required in Part 1 of Schedule 6 to be displayed on an overdimension motor vehicle must—

6.15(2) Unless 6.15(3)(b) applies, an overdimension motor vehicle that is required in Part 1 of Schedule 6 to display hazard warning panels must display panels that comply with the minimum dimensions specified in—

6.15(3) A motor vehicle that is required in Part 1 of Schedule 6 to display hazard warning panels must either—

6.16 Agency may approve alternative hazard warning panels

6.16(1) The Agency may approve an alternative hazard warning panel that varies from the panels specified in 6.15(1), for use on a vehicle if—

6.16(2) If the Agency approves an alternative hazard warning panel, the Agency must publish on the Agency’s website—

6.17 Certain vehicles may indicate hazard other than by hazard warning flag or panel

6.17(1) Instead of displaying a hazard warning flag at the front of the vehicle, the boom head of a mobile crane may be painted to delineate its excess front overhang, provided that—

(a) the colour of the paint on the front face of the boom head and each side of the boom head is either white, yellow, or red or a combination of these colours; and

(b) the area on each side of the boom head that is painted covers an area of not less than 0.12 square metres.

6.17(2) Instead of displaying a hazard warning panel at the front of the vehicle, the boom head of a mobile crane may be painted to delineate its excess front overhang, provided that—

(a) the colour of the paint on the front face of the boom head and each side of the boom head is either white, yellow or red or a combination of these colours; and

(b) the area on each side of the boom head that is painted covers an area of not less than 0.12 square metres.

6.17(3) Instead of displaying a hazard warning panel at the front of the vehicle, parts of an agricultural motor vehicle, including attachments or implements, that extend beyond the maximum front overhang of the vehicle may be painted with high visibility paint.

6.17(4) Instead of displaying a hazard warning panel an agricultural tractor with a width exceeding 2.55 m but not exceeding 3.1 m may instead be fitted with and use an amber beacon when operated on a road.

6.18 “OVERSIZE” signs

6.18(1) An overdimension motor vehicle exceeding 3.1 m in width that is escorted by a pilot vehicle must display an “OVERSIZE” sign that complies with 6.18(2).

6.18(2) An “OVERSIZE” sign that is displayed on an overdimension motor vehicle as required in Part 1 of Schedule 6 must—

(a) comply with the dimensions specified in Part 2 of Schedule 7; and

(b) be mounted at the front and at the rear of the overdimension motor vehicle, so that the sign can be seen clearly by approaching drivers; and

(c) if split into two parts, comply with the following—

(i) the word “OVER” and the word “SIZE” are on separate parts; and
(ii) both parts of the sign must be mounted at the same height; and
(iii) the combined length of the parts must be at least 1.1 m; and

(d) be frangible if any part of the hazard warning panel extends beyond the body of the vehicle or the load, whichever it is attached to; and

(e) during daylight hours, have matt black lettering on a yellow-green background with a matt black border; and

(f) during the hours of darkness—

(i) consist of retroreflective material with black lettering on a yellow-green background; and
(ii) comply with AS/NZS 1906.1:2007, Retroflective materials and devices for road traffic control purposes, Part 1: Retroreflective material.

6.18(3) A motor vehicle must not display an “OVERSIZE” sign unless the vehicle is overdimension and is required by Part 1 of Schedule 6 to display the sign.

6.19 Lighting requirements for overdimension motor vehicles

6.19(1) The headlamps of an overdimension motor vehicle must be operated on low beam during daylight hours.

6.19(2) During the hours of darkness, the lamps in 6.19(3) must be fitted to, and operated on, an overdimension motor vehicle, unless 6.19(7) applies, and must be clearly visible in clear weather at a distance of at least 200 m during the hours of darkness.

6.19(3) The lamps to which 6.19(2) refers are:

6.19(4) An amber beacon must be fitted to an overdimension motor vehicle unless 6.19(7) applies, so that it is visible to approaching traffic and must operate—

6.19(5) During the hours of darkness, two or more white scene lamps must be fitted to, and operate on, an overdimension motor vehicle whose load exceeds 5 m in width.

6.19(6) The scene lamps in 6.19(5) must—

6.19(7) Despite 6.19(2) and 6.19(4), the lamps and beacons referred to in those subclauses may, but are not required to, be fitted to and operated on a standard motor vehicle that is transporting an overdimension load that does not exceed the overall length limits in Schedule 2 and does not exceed 2.7 m in width.

Travel restrictions for overdimension vehicles

6.20 Meaning of city area

In 6.21 to 6.24 and Schedule 9, 'city area' means the following urban areas:

6.21 Restricted travel times for Category 1 overdimension vehicles and loads

6.21(1) Subject to 6.28(1), a motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 1 must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.21(2).

6.21(2) A motor vehicle in 6.21(1) must not travel—

6.22 Restricted travel times for Category 2 overdimension vehicles and loads

6.22(1) Subject to 6.28(1), a motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 2 must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.22(2) and 6.22(3).

6.22(2) A motor vehicle in 6.22(1) must not travel—

6.22(3) A motor vehicle in 6.22(1) must not travel—

6.23 Restricted travel times for Category 3 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling in city area

6.23(1) A motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 3 and which is travelling in any city area must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.23(2) (as shown in Table 9.1 of Schedule 9) and 6.23(3).

6.23(2) A motor vehicle in 6.23(1) must not travel within the following times:

6.23(3) A motor vehicle in 6.23(1) must not travel—

6.23(4) If there is any inconsistency between the description of the permitted hours of travel in 6.23(2) and the table of those hours in Table 9.1 of Schedule 9, the description in 6.23(2) prevails.

6.24 Restricted travel times for Category 3 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling outside city area

6.24(1) A motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 3 and which is travelling outside any city area must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.24(2) (as shown in Table 9.2 of Schedule 9) and 6.24(3).

6.24(2) A motor vehicle in 6.24(1) must not travel within the following times:

6.24(3) A motor vehicle in 6.24(1) must not travel—

6.24(4) If there is any inconsistency between the description of the permitted hours of travel in 6.24(2) and the table of those hours in Table 9.2 of Schedule 9, the description in 6.24(2) prevails.

6.25 Restricted travel times for Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling in Zone 1

6.25(1) A motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 4 and which is travelling inside Zone 1 (as defined in Part 1 of Schedule 10) must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.25(2) (as shown in Table 10.1 of Schedule 10) and 6.25(3).

6.25(2) A motor vehicle in 6.25(1) must not travel within the following times:

(a) on a Monday, between 0630 hours and 2230 hours:

(b) on a Tuesday, between 0630 hours and 2230 hours:

(c) on a Wednesday, between 0630 hours and 2230 hours:

(d) on a Thursday, between 0630 hours and 2230 hours:

(e) on a Friday, after 0630 hours:

(f) on a Saturday:

(g) on a Sunday, before 2230 hours.

6.25(3) A motor vehicle in 6.25(1) must not travel—

(a) between 22 December and 5 January inclusive; or

(b) on a national public holiday, or for the rest of the day after the commencement of the earliest applicable morning travel restriction time specified in 6.25(2) on the day preceding a national public holiday; or

(c) in a province on its provincial anniversary holiday, or for the rest of the day after the commencement of the earliest applicable morning travel restriction time specified in 6.25(2) on the day preceding that anniversary holiday; or

(d) on a Saturday if that day is 25 April; or

(e) at times (other than those specified in 6.25(2) and 6.25(3)(a) to (d)) when there are unusually heavy traffic volumes, or when travel is likely to cause significant delay to other road users.

6.25(4) If there is any inconsistency between the description of the permitted hours of travel in 6.25(2) and the table of those hours in Table 10.1 of Schedule 10, the description in 6.25(2) prevails.

6.26 Restricted travel times for Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling in Zone 2

6.26(1) A motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 4 and which is travelling inside Zone 2 (as defined in Part 1 of Schedule 10) must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.26(2) (as shown in Table 10.2 of Schedule 10) and 6.26(3).

6.26(2) A motor vehicle in 6.26(1) must not travel within the following times:

6.26(3) A motor vehicle in 6.26(1) must not travel—

6.26(4) If there is any inconsistency between the description of the permitted hours of travel in 6.26(2) and the table of those hours in Table 10.2 of Schedule 10, the description in 6.26(2) prevails.

6.27 Restricted travel times for Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling in Zone 3

6.27(1) A motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 4 and which is travelling inside Zone 3 (as defined in Part 1 of Schedule 10) must comply with the travel restrictions in 6.27(2) (as shown in Table 10.3 of Schedule 10) and 6.27(3).

6.27(2) A motor vehicle in 6.27(1) must not travel within the following times:

6.27(3) A motor vehicle in 6.27(1) must not travel—

6.27(4) If there is any inconsistency between the description of the permitted hours of travel in 6.27(2) and the table of those hours in Table 10.3 of Schedule 10, the description in 6.27(2) prevails.

6.28 Exception to travel time requirements for certain Category 1 or Category 2 overdimension motor vehicles

6.28(1) A Category 1 or Category 2 overdimension motor vehicle does not have to comply with the travel time requirements specified in 6.21(2), 6.22(2), or 6.22(3) if the vehicle or any load or equipment it carries does not project outside the lane in which it is travelling; and—

6.28(2) The low speed turning performance of a vehicle, for the purpose of 6.28(1), must—

6.29 Exceptions to restricted travel times for unforeseen delays or emergency vehicles

6.29(1) If there is an unforeseen delay in a journey for an overdimension vehicle and a travel restriction prohibits the completion of the journey, the vehicle may continue its journey if—

6.29(2) An extended travel time in 6.29(1) must not exceed 30 minutes, unless an extended travel time greater than 30 minutes is necessary for the vehicle to reach a destination where it can park safely and the New Zealand Police agree to this.

6.29(3) Travel time restrictions in 6.21 to 6.27 do not apply to a motor vehicle that is being used in an emergency if the operator of the vehicle can provide evidence that the vehicle was required by—

Piloting requirements

6.30 Responsibilities of operators of overdimension motor vehicles

The operator of an overdimension motor vehicle must ensure that—

6.31 Responsibilities of on-road supervisor

6.31(1) If no on-road supervisor is designated, the responsibilities of that person must be performed by the driver of the overdimension vehicle.

6.31(2) An on-road supervisor is responsible for ensuring that—

6.32 Responsibilities of load pilots

6.32(1) Pilots are responsible for providing effective warnings to approaching vehicles and pedestrians.

6.32(2) If an approaching vehicle or pedestrian is likely to encroach into the path of an overdimension motor vehicle, the operator of a pilot vehicle must take all practicable steps to ensure that the driver of the approaching vehicle or the pedestrian is warned of the likely hazard so that the person has sufficient time to comply with the operator’s instruction.

6.32(3) If the operator of a pilot vehicle considers that use of a sound warning device is necessary to ensure that the warning required in 6.32(2) is effective and such a device is available then the operator may use the sound warning device.

6.33 Minimum requirements for Category 1 vehicles and loads

6.33(1) An overdimension motor vehicle or overdimension load whose dimensions are within Category 1, and whose width exceeds 3.1 m, must be escorted by at least one Class 2 pilot vehicle, if operated—

6.33(2) An overdimension motor vehicle must be escorted by at least one Class 2 pilot vehicle, if—

6.33(3) Unless 6.33(2) applies, a motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 1 and whose width does not exceed 3.1 m does not have to be escorted by a Class 2 pilot vehicle if the vehicle’s low speed turning performance has been verified by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation as meeting the requirements in 6.33(4) and the vehicle including any load or equipment carried by or attached to the vehicle does not exceed the maximum dimensions specified by the vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation.

6.33(4) The low speed turning performance of a vehicle, for the purpose of 6.33(3), must—

6.34 Minimum requirements for Category 2 vehicles and loads

6.34(1) An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 2A or 2B must be escorted by at least one Class 2 pilot vehicle during daylight hours.

6.34(2) An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 2C must be escorted by at least two Class 2 pilot vehicles during daylight hours.

6.34(3) An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 2 must be escorted by at least one Class 1 pilot vehicle and one Class 2 pilot vehicle, if it is travelling on a road during the hours of darkness.

6.34(4) Despite 6.34(2) and 6.34(3), an overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 2 must be escorted by at least one Class 2 pilot vehicle if the vehicle’s swept path performance has been verified by a vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation as meeting the swept path performance of a Category 1 overdimension motor vehicle specified in 6.34(5) and the vehicle including any load or equipment carried by or attached to the vehicle does not exceed the maximum dimensions specified by the vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation.

6.34(5) The maximum swept path of a Category 1 overdimension motor vehicle, for the purpose of 6.34(4), must—

6.35 Minimum requirements for Category 3 and Category 4 vehicles and loads

6.35(1) An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 3 with a rear overhang of 7 m or less must be escorted by at least one Class 2 pilot vehicle and one Class 1 pilot vehicle at all times.

6.35(2) An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle whose dimensions are within Category 3 with a rear overhang of more than 7 m or within Category 4 must be escorted by at least two Class 2 pilot vehicles and one Class 1 pilot vehicle at all times.

6.36 Convoys of overdimension vehicles or loads

6.36(1) Despite 6.33 and 6.34, if up to three agricultural motor vehicles are travelling in convoy and all have dimensions within Category 1 or Category 2, the requirements of 6.30(a) will be met by—

6.36(2) Despite 6.33, 6.34, and 6.35, if two or more motor vehicles designed primarily to transport an overdimension or overweight load or both that meet the criteria in 6.7(1), and that have the same point of departure and the same point of destination, are travelling in convoy, the requirements of 6.30(a) will be met if—

6.36(3) If two or more overdimension motor vehicles are travelling in convoy in accordance with a permit issued under this section, the piloting requirements specified in the permit must be complied with.

6.37 Requirement to travel with Class 1 pilot vehicle and obtain road controlling authority permission in certain circumstances

An overdimension load or overdimension motor vehicle that is travelling in the lane for opposing traffic on a median-divided road or at a controlled intersection must be escorted by at least one Class 1 pilot vehicle and must have road controlling authority permission.

6.38 Overdimension motor vehicles travelling less than 500 m during daylight hours

Despite 6.33, 6.34, and 6.35, an overdimension motor vehicle that is travelling less than 500 m during daylight hours does not need to be accompanied by a pilot vehicle if the vehicle can travel safely without impeding other traffic.

6.39 Operator of pilot vehicle must be enforcement officer or have completed pilot driver’s course

The operator of a pilot vehicle must either be an enforcement officer or have completed a Class 1 or Class 2 pilot driver’s course approved by the Agency.

6.40 Exception to piloting requirements for snow plough

Despite 6.33, 6.34 and 6.35, an overdimension motor vehicle does not need to be accompanied by a pilot vehicle if that vehicle is a snow plough operating under the authority of the road controlling authority for the purpose of clearing snow.

Note: The Class 2 pilot qualification is the entry level qualification. The Class 1 pilot qualification is the advanced qualification.

Pilot vehicles

6.41 Pilot vehicles: General

6.41(1) A pilot vehicle must have sufficient manoeuvrability and dynamic performance to enable it to carry out its primary duty of providing adequate warning to road users.

6.41(2) A pilot vehicle must be clearly identifiable as a vehicle that is providing a warning of the overdimension motor vehicle that it is escorting.

6.41(3) A pilot vehicle may not carry an overdimension load or tow a trailer with an overdimension load.

6.41(4) A pilot vehicle may be equipped with a sound warning device that is—

6.41(5) A Class 1 pilot vehicle must be—

6.41(6) All pilot vehicles and overdimension motor vehicles in a convoy must be in radio communication with each other.

6.42 Front pilot vehicles

6.42(1) A Class 2 pilot vehicle at the front of an overdimension motor vehicle must be a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 7,000 kg.

6.42(2) A pilot vehicle at the front of an overdimension motor vehicle may not tow another vehicle.

6.43(3) A pilot vehicle at the front of an overdimension motor vehicle must display above its roof a warning sign as specified in Part 3 of Schedule 7, or a variable message sign that has been approved by the Agency, in accordance with 6.45(1).

6.43 Rear pilot vehicles

6.43(1) Except as provided in 6.43(2), a pilot vehicle at the rear of an overdimension motor vehicle must be a rigid motor vehicle with not more than three axles.

6.43(2) A pilot vehicle at the rear of an overdimension motor vehicle may tow a simple trailer with a maximum of two axles.

6.43(3) A pilot vehicle (or its trailer) at the rear of an overdimension motor vehicle must display a warning sign as specified in Part 3 of Schedule 7 or a variable message sign that has been approved by the Agency in accordance with 6.45(1), that faces towards the rear of the vehicle (or the trailer, if the pilot vehicle is towing a trailer) and describes the load ahead of it.

6.43(4) The operator and driver of an overdimension motor vehicle must ensure that appropriate measures are taken to minimise the risks to the safety of road users presented by a pilot vehicle that is operating at the rear of an overdimension vehicle, particularly when the pilot vehicle has stopped.

6.44 Pilot signs

6.44(1) A pilot warning sign must comply with the size and colour specifications in Part 3 of Schedule 7, or with a variable message sign that has been approved by the Agency in accordance with 6.45(1).

6.44(2) The pilot warning sign required by this Rule, may be displayed only when the pilot vehicle is escorting an overdimension vehicle.

6.44(3) A Class 1 pilot vehicle must clearly display on the exterior of the vehicle a pilot logo, device, or marking, (or a combination of these), that is approved by the Agency in accordance with 6.45(4).

6.44(4) A Class 2 pilot vehicle may display on the exterior of the vehicle a pilot logo, device or marking (or a combination of these), that is approved by the Agency in accordance with 6.45(4).

6.45 Agency may approve alternative variable message sign, logo, device or marking

6.45(1) The Agency may approve a variable message sign—

6.45(2) The Agency may only approve a variable message sign under 6.45(1) if the variable message sign provides a warning to approaching vehicles that is as effective as, or better than, the warning provided by the relevant warning sign specified in Part 3 of Schedule 7.

6.45(3) If the Agency approves a variable message sign under 6.45(1) the Agency must publish a notice on the Agency’s website—

6.45(4) The Agency may approve a logo, device or marking to be displayed on the exterior of a Class 1 or Class 2 pilot vehicle that distinguishes the pilot vehicle from other vehicles on the road and may specify the position on the vehicle, or any other distinguishing feature, of the logo, device, or marking.

6.46 Lighting requirements for pilot vehicles

6.46(1) Except as provided in 6.46(7), the headlamps of a pilot vehicle must be operated on low beam when the pilot vehicle is escorting an overdimension motor vehicle during daylight hours.

6.46(2) The lighting in 6.46(3) to 6.46(8) may be operated only when a pilot vehicle is escorting an overdimension motor vehicle.

6.46(3) Except as provided in 6.46(4), a Class 2 pilot vehicle must have one or two flashing or revolving amber beacons fitted to its roof unless 6.46(5) applies.

6.46(4) An overdimension motor vehicle whose load exceeds 5 m in width must be escorted by at least one Class 1 pilot vehicle and at least two Class 2 pilot vehicles, each of which has fitted to its roof, and operates—

6.46(5) Despite 6.46(4), if the beacons required to be fitted to the roof of a pilot vehicle at the rear of an overdimension motor vehicle would not be clearly visible to following traffic then the beacons, or equivalent additional beacons, must be fitted to the rear of the pilot vehicle, or its trailer, in a position that ensures the beacons are clearly visible to traffic approaching from the rear of the overdimension motor vehicle.

6.46(6) If an overdimension motor vehicle has a width exceeding 5 m, the pilot vehicle that is travelling furthest ahead must display one pair of alternately flashing auxiliary lamps that emit a purple light clearly visible to approaching traffic in addition to the beacons required in 6.46(4).

6.46(7) If an overdimension motor vehicle has a width that exceeds 5 m, the pilot vehicle that is travelling furthest ahead may operate with one pair of alternately flashing headlamps, which must be operated on low beam, when the pilot vehicle is escorting an overdimension motor vehicle during daylight hours.

6.46(8) During the hours of darkness, a pilot vehicle must be fitted with one or two lamps that emit a white light to illuminate a roof-mounted warning sign, provided that the light is not directly visible from the rear of the vehicle.

6.47 Pilot vehicle must display warning and information regarding hazard

A pilot vehicle must display adequate warning and information, consistent with the requirements of this Rule, concerning the overdimension hazard to approaching drivers.

6.48 Exceptions for enforcement officers’ vehicles

Nothing in 6.41 to 6.47 applies to an enforcement officer piloting an overdimension vehicle and load, provided the pilot vehicle displays blue and red flashing lights.

Overdimension permits

6.49 Motor vehicle requires a permit to exeed certain dimension limits

6.49(1) An operator of one of the following motor vehicles must apply for, and be issued with, an overdimension permit by the Agency: 

6.49(2) The fees for applying for a permit and for the issue of a permit under 6.49(1) are specified in regulation 12B of the Land Transport (Certification and Other Fees) Regulations 2014.

6.50 Criteria for issuing a permit

6.50(1) The Agency may, in considering an application for a permit, have regard to—

6.50(2) The Agency must not issue an overdimension permit if—

6.51 Application for overdimension permit

6.51(1) An application for an overdimension permit under 6.49 must include—

6.51(2) An application for a permit for a vehicle in Category 4 must also include a statement that the route has been assessed, and the load can be safely managed—

6.51(3) An application for a permit for a vehicle in Category 4B must, in addition to the requirements in 6.51(2), include an engineering assessment of the matters determined by the Agency in accordance with 6.51(4) that relate to—

6.51(4) The Agency must determine the engineering matters that are to be assessed by an applicant for a permit for a vehicle in Category 4B and publish details on the Agency’s website.

6.52 Form of permit

6.52(1) A permit issued under 6.49 must include—

6.52(2) A permit issued under 6.49 may specify the following additional conditions:

6.52(3) If a permit authorises the movement of two or more overdimension vehicles in convoy, the permit must specify piloting requirements.

6.53 Vehicle operating under a permit must comply with critical conditions

A vehicle operating under a permit issued under 6.49 must comply with the following critical conditions:

6.54 Additional requirements imposed on overdimension vehicle or load operating under a permit

6.54(1) If aware of the presence on the road of another overdimension vehicle that may create a hazardous situation, or if advised by New Zealand Police or the Agency or any other road controlling authority of this, the operator of each overdimension vehicle must manage the operation of their vehicle’s movement in relation to that other vehicle.

6.54(2) If the vehicle or load exceeds 5 m in width, the operator of a motor vehicle operating under a permit must notify the Agency at least 30 minutes before the journey is to begin.

6.54(3) A permit or other authorisation issued under this section must—

6.55 Validity of a permit

6.55(1) A permit issued under this section is invalid if it is altered without the authority of the Agency.

6.55(2) A permit only applies to the overdimension load or vehicle described on the permit.

6.55(3) A permit is invalid if the vehicle transporting the overdimension load or the overdimension vehicle is not being operated by the person named on the permit.

6.56 Revocation of a permit

6.56(1) The Agency may revoke a permit if the Agency considers there is a significant risk to public safety.

6.56(2) The revocation of a permit must be advised as soon as is practicable to the operator or the on-road supervisor, giving reasons for the revocation.

6.56(3) A revocation of a permit takes effect immediately, or at such later time as is specified, after it is advised to the operator or the on-road supervisor.

6.57 Overdimension permit not required in certain circumstances

Despite 6.49, an overdimension motor vehicle does not have to be operated under a permit if the operator can provide evidence that the vehicle was required by—

6.58 Enforcement officer may approve immediate use of overdimension motor vehicle in emergency or unforeseen circumstances

Despite 6.49, an enforcement officer may—

Part 2 Definitions and vehicle classes

Definitions

Note: A term defined in section 2 of the Land Transport Act 1998, and not defined differently below, may be interpreted by reference to the Act.
Access provider
has the meaning given in the Railways Act 2005
Agency
means the New Zealand Transport Agency established under section 93 of the Land Transport Management Act 2003

Agricultural motor vehicle—

Agricultural purpose—

Agricultural tractor
means a vehicle that is designed and constructed principally for the purposes of—

Agricultural trailer—

Ambulance service
means a service that complies with the requirements in NZS 8156:2002 Ambulance Sector Standard
Articulated bus
means a bus consisting of two or more rigid sections that—
  • (a) articulate relative to each other; and
  • (b) have interconnecting passenger compartments that allow passengers to move freely between them; and
  • (c) are not easily detachable from each other without specialist equipment
Articulated vehicle
means any motor vehicle with a semi-trailer attached, so that part of the semi-trailer is superimposed upon the motor vehicle and a substantial part of the weight of the semi-trailer and of its load is borne by the motor vehicle
A-train
means an articulated vehicle towing a full trailer
Axle
means one or more shafts, spindles, or bearings in the same vertical transverse plane by means of which, in conjunction with wheels mounted on those shafts, spindles, or bearings, a portion of the weight of the vehicle is transmitted to the roadway, and—
  • (a) if two or more wheels of a motor vehicle are substantially in the same line transversely and some or all of them have separate axles, the axles of all those wheels are to be treated as one axle;
  • (b) if the longitudinal centre-line of an axle of a motor vehicle is less than 1 m distant from the longitudinal centre-line of another axle, the two axles are to be treated as one axle (“a dual axle”);
  • (c) for the purposes of measuring the distance of a dual axle from any other axle, the measurement is taken from the longitudinal centre-line of the axle that is nearer to the axle from which the distance is to be measured
Axle set
means a single axle set, a tandem axle set, a twin-steer axle set, a tri-axle set, or a quad-axle set
Beacon
means a warning lamp comprising one or more sources designed to emit a flashing light or a revolving beacon of light
Brake code mass
has the meaning given in Schedule 4 of Land Transport Rule: Heavy-vehicle Brakes 2006
B-train
means a motor vehicle comprising a towing vehicle and two semi-trailers connected at two points of articulation where the forward-distance of the longer trailer divided by the forward-distance of the shorter trailer does not exceed 1.4 m
Caravan trailer
means a trailer that is permanently equipped with features intended to make the vehicle suitable as a person’s dwelling place, and must include at least one sleeping berth and one table, both of which may be of a design that allows them to be retracted or folded away
Category,
in relation to an overdimension vehicle, means the category assigned to that vehicle by Part 1 of Schedule 6
Class,
in relation to vehicles, means a category of vehicle of one of the Groups A, L, M, N and T, as specified in Table A: Vehicle classes
Combination vehicle
means a towing vehicle in combination with one or more trailers or other motor vehicle that is being towed
Controller
means the person who is the National Controller in accordance with section 10, or a Group Controller appointed under section 26, of the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
Converter dolly
means an individual trailer unit with a fifth wheel coupling used to convert a semi-trailer to a full trailer. A dolly must have either—
Direction-indicator
means a lamp used for signalling an intention to change direction to the right or to the left
Emergency services
means New Zealand Police, New Zealand Fire Service or an ambulance service
Enforcement officer
has the meaning given in section 2 of the Land Transport Act 1998
Forklift
means a motor vehicle (not fitted with self-laying tracks) designed principally for lifting, carrying and stacking goods by means of one or more tines, platens, or clamps

Forward-distance means—

Frangible
means breakable or readily deformable

Front axis means—

Front overhang
means the distance measured to the foremost point of the vehicle, including its load but in the case of a full trailer excluding the drawbar, from the following positions:
Full trailer
means a trailer with two axle sets, the foremost of which is steered by a drawbar; and includes a semi-trailer with non-steering axles coupled to a converter dolly
Gross combination mass
has the meaning given in Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicles 2004
Gross mass,
in relation to any vehicle or combination vehicle, means the total mass of that vehicle and its load, equipment, and accessories, which may be determined by calculating the sum of the mass on the vehicle’s axles or axle sets
Gross vehicle mass
means the maximum safe operating mass for a vehicle (including the mass of any accessories, crew, passengers, or load) that is derived from the design, capabilities, and capacities of the vehicle’s construction, systems, and components, and that—
Heavy motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle that is either—
Heavy passenger service vehicle
means a passenger service vehicle with a gross vehicle mass that exceeds 3,500 kg
High-productivity motor vehicle
(HPMV) means a heavy motor vehicle or heavy combination vehicle that is operating under a permit issued under this Rule to, with or without a load—

Hours of darkness means—

Indivisible load
means a load that cannot reasonably (without disproportionate effort, expense or risk of damage to the load) have its size reduced or be divided into two or more sections for road transport; and includes loads specified in this rule as indivisible
Inter-vehicle spacing
means the distance between a towing vehicle (excluding the tow coupling shroud) and trailer (excluding the drawbar or tow rope or front dolly but including the load)
Level surface
(including reasonably level surface) in relation to a road, means a road or weigh platform including weigh scale surfaces of such a minimal gradient that the heavy motor vehicle or combination vehicle on it does not move in a forwards or backwards direction after the enforcement officer has requested all brakes on such vehicle be released. The vehicle should not otherwise be restrained by any artificial restraining force, such as chocks, when the enforcement officer requests that the brakes be released
Light motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass that is 3,500 kg or less
Light passenger service vehicle
means a passenger service vehicle with a gross vehicle mass that is 3,500 kg or less
Load
includes part of a load, and—
Load-sharing axle set
means an axle set suspension system that has effective damping characteristics on all axles of the set and is built to divide the load between the tyres on the set so that no tyre carries a mass more than 10% greater than the mass it would carry if—
Load-sharing trailer
means a type of short, load-sharing semi-trailer, that is not designed to directly carry any goods, and that has one or more axles equipped with a kingpin, a fifth wheel and other parts necessary for attaching it to the rear end of a towing vehicle and the front portion of a second gooseneck trailer
Low volume vehicle
has the meaning given in Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002
Manned steering jinker
means a specialised load-bearing vehicle that is steered by an operator and that is used to carry the rear of a long load
Mass,
in relation to a vehicle, means the quantity of material contained in or on the vehicle that, when subjected to acceleration due to gravity, will exert downwards on a level surface a force that can be measured as the weight of the vehicle
Maximum towed mass
has the meaning given in Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicles 2004
Mobile crane
means a non-load carrying self-propelled vehicle designed solely or principally for lifting objects using a boom with lifting gear
Modify,
in relation to a vehicle, means to change the vehicle from its original state by altering, substituting, adding or removing any structure, system, component or equipment; but does not include repair
Motor vehicle
has the meaning given in section 2 of the Land Transport Act 1998.
Non-steering axle
means any axle of a vehicle the wheels of which remain substantially parallel with the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle while the vehicle is turning
Operate,
in relation to a vehicle, means to drive or use the vehicle on a road, or to cause or permit the vehicle to be on a road or to be driven on a road, whether or not the person is present with the vehicle, and operator has a corresponding meaning
Oscillating axle
means any axle that complies with the following provisions:
Overall length
means the length of a vehicle or vehicle combination measured in a straight line, and includes—
Overdimension load
means an indivisible load on a motor vehicle that exceeds the dimension limits in Schedule 2
Overdimension motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle or combination vehicle (including any load) that exceeds one or more of the dimension limits in Schedule 2
Overweight motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle or combination vehicle (including any load) that exceeds the gross mass limits for general access in Part 2 of Schedule 3
Passenger service vehicle
has the meaning given in the Land Transport Act 1998
Pilot vehicle
means a motor vehicle that escorts an overdimension and/or overweight motor vehicle, and that warns road users of the potential hazard created by the overdimension and/or overweight motor vehicle, or its load, or both
Pivot steer vehicle
means a vehicle with a chassis that is split into two dependent parts that are connected by a permanent steering pivot
Pole trailer
means a trailer that is attached to a towing vehicle by a telescoping or sliding pole, and is designed to support a common long load spanning between the trailer and the towing vehicle
Public transport service bus
means a passenger service vehicle that is operating in a public transport service that is identified in or under a regional public transport plan as defined in the Land Transport Management Act 2003
Quad-axle set
means a set of four axles where—

Rear axis

Rear overhang

Rear trailing unit distance
means the maximum distance from the centre of the fifth wheel or tow coupling on the towing vehicle to the rear of the combination
Repair
means to restore a damaged or worn vehicle, its structure, systems, components or equipment; and includes the replacement of damaged or worn structures, systems, components and equipment with equivalent undamaged or new structures, systems, components and equipment
Retractable axle
means an axle that has a convenient adjustment to allow the axle load distribution of the axle set to be varied substantially. An axle that is retracted is not considered to be part of the axle set
Rigid vehicle
means a vehicle with motive power, driver’s position and steering system, that does not have any pivot points to allow any part of the chassis of the vehicle to move or rotate in relation to any other part of the chassis of the vehicle; but includes a pivot steer vehicle
Road
has the meaning given in section 2 of the Land Transport Act 1998
Road controlling authority,
in relation to a road, means the authority, body or person having control of the road; and includes a person acting under and within the terms of a delegation or authorisation given by the controlling authority
Roadway
means that portion of the road used or reasonably usable for the time being for vehicular traffic in general
Rubbish truck
means a vehicle designed and constructed for the collection and transport of rubbish and to which is fitted a compactor
Semi-trailer
means a trailer with only one axle set where the point of attachment to the towing vehicle or leading trailer—
Side lamp
means a vehicle lamp of lower power than the head lamps used for the purpose of indicating the presence of the vehicle when seen from a distance and also of indicating the approximate width of the vehicle; and includes:
Simple trailer
means a trailer (other than a semi-trailer) that has only one axle set
Single-tyred axle
means any axle fitted with two or more wheels, but which is neither an oscillating axle nor a twin-tyred axle
Single axle set
means either one axle or two axles having their centres spaced less than 1 m apart
Single large-tyred axle
means a single-tyred axle where the manufacturer’s designated tyre section width is 355 mm or more but less than 444 mm
Single mega-tyred axle
means a single-tyred axle where the manufacturer’s designated tyre section width is 444 mm or more
Single standard-tyred axle
means a single-tyred axle where the manufacturer’s designated tyre section width is less than 355 mm
Specialist overdimension motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle that is designed for a primary purpose of carrying out a specialist function that requires overdimension equipment and is not primarily designed to transport overdimension or overweight loads
Standard load
means a load that will fit on a motor vehicle within the dimension limits in Schedule 2 and within the mass limits for general access in section 4
Standard motor vehicle
means a motor vehicle whose dimension limits comply with Schedule 2 and mass limits comply with requirements for general access in section 4
Static Roll Threshold (SRT)
means the maximum level of steady turning lateral acceleration a vehicle can tolerate without rolling over, which is expressed as a proportion of “g” where “g” is the acceleration constant due to gravity (9.81 m/s/s)
Swept path
means the maximum road width required by a vehicle when it negotiates a turn
Tandem axle set
means an axle set comprising two axles having their centres spaced not less than 1 m and not more than 2 m apart
Towing vehicle
means a rigid vehicle that tows a trailer or other motor vehicle
Tractor
means a motor vehicle (not being a traction engine) designed exclusively for traction at speeds not exceeding 50 km/h
Traffic control device
has the meaning given in Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004
Trailer
means a vehicle without motive power that is capable of being drawn or propelled by a motor vehicle from which it is readily detachable but does not include—
Tri-axle set
means a set of three axles, where—
Twin-steer axle set
means an axle set of two axles with single tyres, where both axles are connected to the same mechanism in order to steer similarly
Twin-tyred axle
means any axle, not being an oscillating axle, that has a wheel track of 1.3 m or more and is equipped with four or more tyres
Vehicle
has the meaning given in the Land Transport Act 1998
Vehicle axle index (VAI)
means a rating, determined by a road controlling authority which—
Vehicle inspector or inspecting organisation
has the meaning given in Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002
Vehicle recovery service vehicle
means a vehicle used in a vehicle recovery service for towing or transporting on a road any motor vehicle; but does not include a vehicle that is not designed or adapted for the purpose of towing or carrying motor vehicles
Visible
means visible under normal atmospheric conditions to a driver of normal vision
Wheelbase
means the distance from a vehicle’s rear axis to its front axis

Table A Vehicle classes

Class Description

AA (Pedal cycle)

A vehicle designed to be propelled through a mechanism solely by human power.

AB (Power-assisted pedal cycle)

A pedal cycle to which is attached one or more auxiliary propulsion motors having a combined maximum power output not exceeding 300 watts.

LA (Moped with two wheels)

A motor vehicle (other than a power-assisted pedal cycle) that:

  • (a) has two wheels; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has an engine cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 ml and a maximum speed not exceeding 50 km/h; or
    • (ii) has a power source other than a piston engine and a maximum speed not exceeding 50 km/h.

LB (Moped with three wheels)

A motor vehicle (other than a power-assisted pedal cycle) that:

  • (a) has three wheels; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has an engine cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 ml and a maximum speed not exceeding 50 km/h; or
    • (ii) has a power source other than a piston engine and a maximum speed not exceeding 50 km/h.

LB 1

A Class LB motor vehicle that has one wheel at the front and two wheels at the rear.

LB 2

A Class LB motor vehicle that has two wheels at the front and one wheel at the rear.

LC (Motor cycle)

A motor vehicle that:

  • (a) has two wheels; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has an engine cylinder capacity exceeding 50 ml; or
    • (ii) has a maximum speed exceeding 50 km/h.

LD (Motor cycle and side-car)

A motor vehicle that:

  • (a) has three wheels asymmetrically arranged in relation to the longitudinal median axis; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has an engine cylinder capacity exceeding 50 ml; or
    • (ii) has a maximum speed exceeding 50 km/h.

Side-car

A car, box, or other receptacle attached to the side of a motor cycle and supported by a wheel.

LE (Motor tri-cycle)

A motor vehicle that:

  • (a) has three wheels symmetrically arranged in relation to the longitudinal median axis; and
  • (b) has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding one tonne; and
  • (c) either:
    • (i) has an engine cylinder capacity exceeding 50 ml; or
    • (ii) has a maximum speed exceeding 50 km/h.

LE 1

A Class LE motor vehicle that has one wheel at the front and two wheels at the rear.

LE 2

A Class LE motor vehicle that has two wheels at the front and one wheel at the rear.

Passenger vehicle

A motor vehicle that:

  • (a) is constructed primarily for the carriage of passengers; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has at least four wheels; or
    • (ii) has three wheels and a gross vehicle mass exceeding one tonne.

MA (Passenger car)

A passenger vehicle (other than a Class MB or Class MC vehicle) that has not more than nine seating positions (including the driver's seating position).

MB (Forward control passenger vehicle)

A passenger vehicle (other than a Class MC vehicle):

  • (a) that has not more than nine seating positions (including the driver's seating position); and
  • (b) in which the centre of the steering wheel is in the forward quarter of the vehicle's total length.

MC (Off-road passenger vehicle)

A passenger vehicle, designed with special features for off-road operation, that has not more than nine seating positions (including the driver's seating position), and that:

  • (a) has four-wheel drive; and
  • (b) has at least four of the following characteristics when the vehicle is unladen on a level surface and the front wheels are parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal centre-line and the tyres are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure:
    • (i) an approach angle of not less than 28 degrees;
    • (ii) a breakover angle of not less than 14 degrees;
    • (iii) a departure angle of not less than 20 degrees;
    • (iv) a running clearance of not less than 200 mm;
    • (v) a front-axle clearance, rear-axle clearance, or suspension clearance of not less than 175 mm.

Omnibus

A passenger vehicle that has more than nine seating positions (including the driver's seating position). An omnibus comprising two or more non-separable but articulated units shall be considered as a single vehicle.

MD (Light omnibus)

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 5 tonnes.

MD 1

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes and not more than 12 seats.

MD 2

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes and more than 12 seats.

MD 3

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 4.5 tonnes.

MD 4

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 4.5 tonnes but not exceeding 5 tonnes.

ME (Heavy omnibus)

An omnibus that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 5 tonnes.

Goods vehicle

A motor vehicle that:

  • (a) is constructed primarily for the carriage of goods; and
  • (b) either:
    • (i) has at least four wheels; or
    • (ii) has three wheels and a gross vehicle mass exceeding one tonne.

For the purpose of this description:

  • (a) a vehicle that is constructed for both the carriage of goods and passengers shall be considered primarily for the carriage of goods if the number of seating positions multiplied by 68 kg is less than 50% of the difference between the gross vehicle mass and the unladen mass;
  • (b) the equipment and installations carried on special purpose vehicles not designed for the carriage of passengers shall be considered to be goods;
  • (c) a goods vehicle that has two or more non-separable but articulated units shall be considered to be a single vehicle.

NA (Light goods vehicle)

A goods vehicle that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

NB (Medium goods vehicle)

A goods vehicle that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 12 tonnes.

NC (Heavy goods vehicle)

A goods vehicle that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 12 tonnes.

Trailer

A vehicle without motive power that is constructed for the purpose of being drawn behind a motor vehicle.

TA (Very light trailer)

A single-axled trailer that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 0.75 tonnes.

TB (Light trailer)

A trailer (other than a Class TA trailer) that has a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

TC (Medium trailer)

A trailer that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 10 tonnes.

TD (Heavy trailer)

A trailer that has a gross vehicle mass exceeding 10 tonnes.

 

Note: The motor vehicle register contains additional classes to those listed in this Table

Part 3 Schedules

Schedule 1 Transitional and savings provisions

Ref. 1.4

1 Provisions relating to Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016 as enacted

1.1 A vehicle that was first registered in New Zealand before 1 February 2017, and that complies with dimension and mass limits imposed by or under any enactment in force before that date, may continue to operate under the dimension and mass limits imposed by or under that enactment.

1.2 A permit issued under sections 5 or 6 of Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002 that is current immediately before 1 February 2017 continues to be valid until it expires unless it is replaced or revoked.

Schedule 2 Dimension requirements

Ref.3.2(1)

Table of dimension requirements for vehicles and vehicle combinations

Dimension Distance1
(metres except where indicated otherwise)
Width2

Two-wheeled vehicles of Classes AA, AB, LA, and LC

1.1

All other vehicles

2.55, or 1.275 from each side of the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle

Overall length3

 

Towing vehicle, full trailer, pole trailer (excluding load)

11.5

Simple trailer

12.5

Rigid vehicle (not towing)

12.6

Rigid bus with three axles where the rearmost axle is a single-tyred steering axle that is—

  • (a) either positively and continuously linked to the front steer axle (except may be locked for reverse or high-speed operations); or
  • (b) automatically locked at a speed of 30 km/h in the straight-ahead position or for reverse operations.

13.5

Articulated bus

18

Towing vehicle and semi-trailer

19

Towing vehicle and full trailer—

  • (a) excluding load;
  • (b) including load if load overhanging the rear of the trailer does not exceed 2.3 m in width, or 1.15 m from the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle



20
22

Towing vehicle and simple trailer

22

Any other combination of vehicles

20

Height4

 

All vehicles

4.3

Forward-distance

 

Rigid vehicle

8.5 if fitted with tow coupling;

 

9.5 otherwise

Full trailer, simple trailer, pole trailer with drawbar at full extension, articulated bus (both front and rear sections)

8.5

Semi-trailer

9.2

Rear overhang

 

Heavy rigid vehicle whose rearmost axle is a non-steering axle

4.0 or 70% of wheelbase (whichever is less)

Heavy rigid vehicle whose rearmost axle is a steering axle

4.25 or 70% of wheelbase (whichever is less)

Rigid bus that exceeds 12.6 in overall length

4.5 or 72% of wheelbase (whichever is less)

Articulated bus, heavy simple trailer, heavy pole trailer with one axle set

4.0 or 50% of forward-distance (whichever is less)

Heavy semi-trailer other than a Class TC caravan trailer

4.3 or 50% of forward-distance (whichever is less)

Heavy full trailer, heavy pole trailer with two axle sets

4.0 or 50% of wheelbase (whichever is less)

Class TC caravan trailer that is a semi-trailer

4.0 or 65% of forward-distance (whichever is less)

All other vehicles

4.0

Minimum ground clearance5

 

Heavy motor vehicle

The greater of 100 mm or 6% of the distance from the nearest axle to the point where the ground clearance is measured (except when vehicle is loading or unloading)

Light motor vehicle

No requirement

Front overhang

 

Semi-trailer

2.04 radius arc ahead of kingpin centre

Simple trailer

2.04 radius arc ahead of tow coupling centre

Full trailer

2.04 radius arc ahead of turntable centre

Pole trailer

2.04 radius arc ahead of turntable centre on towing vehicle

Agricultural motor vehicle

4.0

All other vehicles

3.0

Rear trailing unit distance

 

A-train, B-train, towing vehicle and two trailers

14.5

Articulated vehicle point of attachment (excluding articulated buses)

No further rearward than the rearmost axle of the towing vehicle or rearmost axle of the leading trailer, and if the towing vehicle is a rigid vehicle and has more than one axle in its rear set, not more than 300 mm rearward of the rear axis of the towing vehicle

Tow coupling position6 (for towing heavy trailer)

 

Full trailer

45% of wheelbase of towing vehicle

Simple trailer

At least 700 mm rearward of the rear axis of the towing vehicle and not more than a distance equal to 50% of wheelbase

Articulated bus

45% of wheelbase of the leading unit

Coupling point distance

 

A-train7

30% of forward-distance of semi-trailer

Inter-vehicle spacing8

 

Between any two consecutive vehicles in a combination, except for a laden pole trailer 

4.0

Outside turning circle in either direction for 360-degree turn9

25.0 diameter (kerb to kerb, excluding collapsible mirrors)

Notes

Schedule 3 Mass Limits

Table of contents

Part 1 Axle mass limits—General access

Part 2 Total mass limits—General access

Part 3 Maximum axle mass for heavy motor vehicles operating on a HPMV or specialist vehicle permit 

Part 4 Maximum total mass for heavy motor vehicles operating on a HPMV permit

Part 1 Axle mass limits—General access

Ref. 1.3(5), 4.2(2), 4.4(a)

Table 1.1A—Maximum mass on individual axles (until 30 November 2018)

Type of axle Mass (kg)

Single standard tyres—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set, or in a tandem axle set with a single large-tyred axle; or

5,500

  • (b) in a tandem axle set with a twin-tyred axle—
    • (i) in a passenger service vehicle; or
    • (ii) in any other vehicle

5,800
5,500
  • (c) in any other axle set

6,000

Single large-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set or a quad-axle set

5,500

  • (b) in a tandem axle set with a single large-tyred axle or a single standard-tyred axle or in a tri-axle set

6,600

  • (c) in any other axle set

7,200

Single mega-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set

5,500

  • (b) in a single-steer axle set

7,200

  • (c) in a quad-axle set

6,000

  • (d) in a tri-axle set

7,000

  • (e) in any other axle set

7,600

Twin-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a quad-axle set

6,000

  • (b) in a tri-axle set

7,000

  • (c) in a tandem axle set with a single standard-tyred axle—
    • (i) in a passenger service vehicle; or
    • (ii) in any other vehicle

8,700
8,200
  • (d) in any other axle set

8,200

Oscillating axle, in any axle set

9,500

Table 1.1B—Maximum mass on individual axles (on and after 1 December 2018)

Type of axle Mass (kg)

Single standard tyres—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set, or in a tandem axle set with a single large-tyred axle; or

5,500

  • (b) in a tandem axle set with a twin-tyred axle—
    • (i) in a passenger service vehicle; or
    • (ii) in any other vehicle

5,800
5,500
  • (c) in any other axle set

6,000

Single large-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set or a quad-axle set

5,500

  • (b) in a tandem axle set with a single large-tyred axle or a single standard-tyred axle or in a tri-axle set

6,600

  • (c) in any other axle set

7,200

Single mega-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set

5,500

  • (b) in a single-steer axle set

7,200

  • (c) in a quad-axle set

6,000

  • (d) in a tri-axle set

7,000

  • (e) in any other axle set

7,600

Twin-tyred—

 

  • (a) in a quad-axle set

6,000

  • (b) in a tri-axle set

7,000

  • (c) in a tandem axle set with a single standard-tyred axle—
    • (i) in a passenger service vehicle; or
    • (ii) in any other vehicle

8,700
8,200
  • (d) in any other axle set
    • (i) in a public transport service bus; or
    • (ii) in any other vehicle


9,000
8,200

Oscillating axle, in any axle set

9,500

Table 1.2—Maximum sum of axle mass on two axles in a tandem axle set

Type of axles Mass (kg)

Two single standard tyred axles

11,000

Two single large-tyred axles—

 

  • (a) in a twin-steer set
  • 11,000

  • (b) not in a twin-steer set
  • 13,000

    Two single mega-tyred axles—

     

  • (a) in a twin-steer axle set
  • 11,000

  • (b) not in a twin-steer axle set
  • 14,000

    Two twin-tyred axles—

     

  • (a) spaced less than 1.3 m from the first axle to the last axle
  • 14,500

  • (b) spaced 1.3 m or more but less than 1.8 m from the first axle to the last axle
  • 15,000

  • (c) spaced 1.8 m or more from the first axle to the last axle
  • 15,500

    Twin-tyred axle—

     

  • (a) for a passenger service vehicle;
       (i) with a single standard-tyred axle and load share of 60%/40%; or
       (ii) with a single large-tyred axle, or single mega-tyred axle and load share between 60%/40% and 55%/45%
  • 14,500
    14,500

  • (b) for any other vehicle—
       (i) with a single large-tyred axle or single mega-tyred axle and load share of 60%/40%
       (ii) with a single large-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle and load share of 55%/45%
  •  
    13,600

    14,500

    Single standard-tyred axle—

     

  • (a) with an oscillating axle
  • 13,000

  • (b) with a single large-tyred axle or a twin-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle
  • 12,000

    Two oscillating axles

    15,000

    Table 1.3—Maximum sum of axle mass on a tri-axle set

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Three oscillating axles, three twin-tyred axles, three single large-tyred axles, or three single mega-tyred axles—

     

    • (a) spaced 2 m or more and less than 2.4 m from the first axle to the last axle

    16,000

    • (b) spaced 2.4 m or more and less than 2.5 m from the first axle to the last axle

    17,500

    • (c) spaced 2.5 m or more from the first axle to the last axle

    18,000

    Table 1.4—Maximum sum of axle mass on a quad-axle set

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Four twin-tyred axles, four single large-tyred axles, or four single mega-tyred axles

    20,000

    Table 1.5—Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles not otherwise described

    Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles that together do not constitute a single tandem axle set, single tri-axle set or single quad-axle set, where the distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle is 1.0 m or more but less than 1.8 m (including maximum gross mass)

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Two single standard-tyred axles

    11,000

    Two single large-tyred axles

    12,000

    A single standard-tyred axle with a single large-tyred axle, single mega-tyred axle or a twin-tyred axle

    12,000

    Any other two or more axles

    14,500

    Part 2 Total mass limits—General access

    Ref. 4.2(2)

    Table 2.1—Maximum total mass for heavy motor vehicles

    Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles that together do not constitute a single tandem axle set, single tri-axle set or single quad-axle set, where the distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle is 1.8 m or more (including maximum gross mass).

    Distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle Mass (kg)

    1.8 m but less than 2.5 m

    15,500

    2.5 m but less than 3.0 m

    17,500

    3.0 m but less than 3.3 m

    19,000

    3.3 m but less than 3.6 m

    20,000

    3.6 m but less than 4.0 m

    21,000

    4.0 m but less than 4.4 m

    22,000

    4.4 m but less than 4.7 m

    23,000

    4.7 m but less than 5.1 m

    24,000

    5.1 m but less than 5.4 m

    25,000

    5.4 m but less than 5.8 m

    26,000

    5.8 m but less than 6.4 m

    27,000

    6.4 m but less than 7.0 m

    28,000

    7.0 m but less than 7.6 m

    29,000

    7.6 m but less than 8.2 m

    30,000

    8.2 m but less than 8.8 m

    31,000

    8.8 m but less than 9.4 m

    32,000

    9.4 m but less than 10.0 m

    33,000

    10.0 m but less than 10.8 m

    34,000

    10.8 m but less than 11.6 m

    35,000

    11.6 m but less than 12.0 m

    36,000

    12.0 m but less than 12.5 m

    37,000

    12.5 m but less than 13.2 m

    38,000

    13.2 m but less than 14.0 m

    39,000

    14.0 m but less than 14.8 m

    40,000

    14.8 m but less than 15.2 m

    41,000

    15.2 m but less than 15.6 m

    42,000

    15.6 m but less than 16.0 m

    43,000

    16.0 m or more

    44,000

    Table 2.2—Maximum total mass for heavy motor vehicles with at least seven axles

    Distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle Mass (kg)

    16.8 m or more, and a minimum 7 axles

    45,000

    17.4 m or more, and a minimum 8 axles

    46,000

    Part 3 Maximum axle mass for heavy motor vehicles operating on a HPMV or specialist vehicle permit

    Ref. 5.9(3)(b), 5.11(3)

    Table 3.1—Maximum mass on individual axles (HPMV)

    Type of axle Mass (kg)

    Single standard tyres:

     

    • (a) in a twin-steer axle set, or in a tandem axle set with a twin or single large-tyred axle

    5,500

    • (b) in any other axle set

    6,000

    Single large-tyred—

     

    • (a) in a twin-steer axle set

    5,500

    • (b) in a quad-axle set

    6,000

    • (c) in a tandem axle set with two single large-tyred axles or in a tandem axle set with a single standard-tyred axle or in a tri-axle set

    6,600

    • (d) in any other axle set

    7,200

    Single mega-tyred

     

    • (a) in a twin-steer axle set

    5,500

    • (b) in a single-steer axle set

    7,200

    • (c) in a quad-axle set

    6,000

    • (d) in a tri-axle set

    7,000

    • (e) in any other axle set

    7,600

    Twin-tyred

     

    • (a) in a quad-axle set

    6,000

    • (b) in a tri-axle set

    7,000

    • (c) in any other axle set

    8,800

    Oscillating axle, in any axle set

    9,500

    Table 3.2—Maximum sum of axle mass on two axles in a tandem axle set (HPMV)

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Two single standard-tyred axles

    11,000

    Two single large-tyred axles:

     

    • (a) in a twin-steer set

    11,000

    • (b) not in a twin-steer set

    13,000

    Two single mega-tyred axles—

     

    • (a) in a twin-steer axle set

    11,000

    • (b) not in a twin-steer axle set

    14,000

    Two twin-tyred axles—

     

    • (a) spaced less than 1.3 m from the first axle to the last axle

    15,000

    • (b) spaced 1.3 m or more from the first axle to the last axle

    16,000

    Twin-tyred axle—

     

    • (a) with a single large-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle and load share of 60/40

    13,600

    • (b) with single large-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle and load share of 55/45

    14,500

    Single standard-tyred axle—

     

    • (a) with an oscillating axle

    13,000

    • (b) with a single large-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle

    12,000

    • (c) with a twin-tyred axle

    13,300

    Two oscillating axles—

     

    • (a) spaced less than 1.3 m from the first axle to the last axle

    15,000

    • (b) spaced 1.3 m or more from the first axle to the last axle

    16,000

    Table 3.3—Maximum sum of axle mass on a tri-axle set (HPMV)

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Three oscillating axles, three twin-tyred axles, or three single large-tyred axles or three mega-tyred axles—

     

    • (a) spaced 2.0 m or more but less than 2.4 m from the first axle to the last axle

    16,000

    • (b) spaced 2.4 m or more but less than 2.5 m from the first axle to the last axle

    18,000

    • (c) spaced 2.5 m or more from the first axle to the last axle

    19,000

    Table 3.4—Maximum sum of axle mass on a quad axle set (HPMV)

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Quad-axle set with twin-tyred axles, single large-tyred axles, single mega-tyred axles or oscillating axles with at least one steering axle

    22,000

    Table 3.5—Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles not otherwise described (HPMV)

    Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles that together do not constitute a single tandem axle set, single tri-axle set, or single quad-axle set, where the distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle is 1.0 m or more but less than 1.8 m (including maximum gross mass)

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Two single standard-tyred axles

    11,000

    Two single large-tyred axles

    12,000

    Two single mega-tyred axles

    13,000

    A single standard-tyred axle with a single large-tyred axle or a twin-tyred axle or a single mega-tyred axle

    12,000

    Any other two or more axles          

    14,500

    Table 3.6—Maximum axle mass for specialist vehicle operating on permit

    Type of axles Mass (kg)

    Single large-tyred axle in a tandem axle set with a twin-tyred axle and a 55/45 load share

    8,100

    Twin-tyred axle in any axle set

    12,000

    Two axles in a tandem axle set comprising—

     

    • (a) a twin-tyred axle with a single large-tyred axle and a 60/40 load share

    16,000

    • (b) a twin-tyred axle with a single large-tyred axle and a 55/45 load share

    18,000

    Two twin-tyred axles—

     

    • (a) spaced less than 1.3 m from the first axle to the last axle

    17,000

    • (b) spaced 1.3 m or more from the first axle to the last axle

    18,000

    Part 4 Maximum total mass for heavy motor vehicles operating on a HPMV permit

    Ref. 5.9(3)(b)

    Maximum sum of mass on any two or more axles that together do not constitute a single tandem axle set, single tri-axle set, or single quad-axle set, where the distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle is 1.8 m or more (including maximum gross mass).

    Distance from the centre of the first axle to the centre of the last axle Mass (kg)

    1.8 m but less than 2.0 m

    15,500

    2.0 m but less than 2.5 m

    16,000

    2.5 m but less than 3.0 m

    17,500

    3.0 m but less than 3.3 m

    19,000

    3.3 m but less than 3.6 m

    20,000

    3.6 m but less than 4.0 m

    21,000

    4.0 m but less than 4.4 m

    22,000

    4.4 m but less than 4.5 m

    23,000

    4.5 m but less than 4.7 m

    23,500

    4.7 m but less than 5.0 m

    24,000

    5.0 m but less than 5.4 m

    25,000

    5.4 m but less than 5.5 m

    26,000

    5.5 m but less than 5.8 m

    26,500

    5.8 m but less than 6.0 m

    27,000

    6.0 m but less than 6.5 m

    28,000

    6.5 m but less than 7.0 m

    29,500

    7.0 m but less than 7.5 m

    31,000

    7.5 m but less than 8.0 m

    32,500

    8.0 m but less than 8.5 m

    34,000

    8.5 m but less than 9.0 m

    35,000

    9.0 m but less than 9.5 m

    36,000

    9.5 m but less than 10.0 m

    37,000

    10.0 m but less than 10.5 m

    38,000

    10.5 m but less than 11.0 m

    39,000

    11.0 m but less than 11.5 m

    40,000

    11.5 m but less than 12.0 m

    41,000

    12.0 m but less than 12.5 m

    42,000

    12.5 m but less than 13.0 m

    43,000

    13.0 m but less than 13.5 m

    44,000

    13.5 m but less than 14.0 m

    45,000

    14.0 m but less than 14.5 m

    46,000

    14.5 m but less than 15.0 m

    47,000

    15.0 m but less than 15.5 m

    48,000

    15.5 m but less than 16.0 m

    49,000

    16.0 m but less than 16.5 m

    50,000

    16.5 m but less than 17.0 m

    51,000

    17.0 m but less than 17.5 m

    52,000

    17.5 m but less than 18.0 m

    53,000

    18.0 m but less than 18.5 m

    54,000

    18.5 m but less than 19.0 m

    55,000

    19.0 m but less than 19.5 m

    56,000

    19.5 m but less than 20.0 m

    57,000

    20.0 m but less than 20.5 m

    58,000

    20.5 m but less than 21.0 m

    59,000

    21.0 m but less than 21.5 m

    60,000

    21.5 m but less than 22.0 m

    61,000

    22.0 m or more

    62,000 or more

    Schedule 4 Permit form

    Ref. 5.4

    Part 1: Mandatory (unless otherwise noted)

    This permit is issued under section 5 of Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016.

    Permit identification

    Identify the operator and vehicle(s)

    Identity of operator

    TSL number (if held)

    Identity of individual powered vehicle(s)

    Identity of trailer(s) individually or by type

    Description of vehicle(s) and load

    Vehicle configuration

    Load description (if permit is for overweight)

    Permit limits

    Maximum permitted gross mass

    Axle and tyre configuration

    Axle mass

    Vehicle Axle Index (if permit is for overweight)

    Length (if HPMV with length variation)

    Routes

    Routes

    Bridge restrictions (if any)

    Permit type and period

    Permit type

    Date permit commences

    Date of expiry

    Critical conditions
    The vehicle must not—

    Additional conditions
    Conditions added by the road controlling authority or the Agency, under clause 5.2(4), 5.8(5), or 5.9(6). For example:

    (a) This permit must be accompanied by any secondary documents describing available routes (if applicable)

    Requirement to observe permit conditions

    A breach of weight limits specified on this form, or any permit condition, is an offence as provided in the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999.

    Permit is invalid if—

    Revocation

    This permit can be revoked under clause 5.6 of the Rule.

    Authorised by:

    Name:

    Position title:

    Signature:

    Date:

    On behalf of [Issuing Authority]

    Part 2: Notes (other than permit conditions)

    For example: If the vehicle exceeds the width limit of 2.55 m, it needs to meet the requirements of section 6 of the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule, which may require obtaining an additional permit for that purpose.

    Part 3: Instructions for completing permit form

    Field Notes

    Name of Issuing Authority

    Name OR Logo of Agency or road controlling authority as appropriate.

    Purpose of permit

    E.g. Overweight, or HPMV (mass, dimension or both), or Specialist vehicle.

    Permit Number

    Issued by road controlling authority.

    Identity of operator

    The holder of the permit.

    TSL number (Transport Service Licence number)

    Must be included if the person holds a transport services licence.

    Identity of vehicle(s)

    Must use registration no(s) if held, OR VIN no(s) if not yet held (for example, approval of over-length trailer prior to registration); Each vehicle individually OR Individual prime mover with trailer types.

    Vehicle configuration

    Brief description: for example, B-train.

    Load description

    Only required if the permit is issued under clause 5.8(1)  (overweight). This can be either a vehicle description (for example, forage harvester) or load description (for example, large bulldozer).

    Axle and tyre configuration

    Use a diagram showing arrangement of axles and dimensions for the vehicle(s) AND/OR a table showing details. Must include tyre arrangements (for example, single or dual) and sizes for each axle. If otherwise not permitted by the Rule, must specify quad-axle set and steering axles in a rear axle set.

    Axle mass

    Permitted mass can be described by reference to the relevant part of Part 1 of Schedule 3 OR by specifying individual axle limits.

    VAI (Vehicle Axle Index)

    Must be stated if the permit is issued under clause 5.8 otherwise optional.

    Maximum permitted gross weight

    Expressed in kg. Must be stated, even if the permit does not exceed the gross mass limits stated in the Rule (for example, allowing higher mass on one axle).

    Length

    Expressed in metres. Only required IF Agency has issued approval to exceed standard dimension limits for HPMV.

    Routes

    EITHER general access OR by specification of routes or operating areas OR by reference to an external source (such as a book of maps) OR by exclusion OR a combination of these descriptions.

    Bridge Restrictions

    Only required where specified structures require lower load limits or speed/ position directions. Could be expressed as a table showing each bridge and the restrictions which apply to that structure.

    Permit type

    Options include continuous, area permit, single trip or multiple trip.

    Permit dates

    Must include start date (usually date of issue) AND an expiry date.

    Schedule 5 High-productivity motor vehicle sign

    Ref. 5.10(1)

    Dimensions of high productivity motor vehicle sign

    Figure 5.1—Dimensions of high-productivity motor vehicle sign (Ref. 5.10(1))

    Schedule 6 Overdimension requirements

    Part 1 Requirements by category

    Ref. 6.3, 6.8(2)

    Category 1 dimensions

    Width / forward-distance1:

    exceeding limits in Schedule 2 up to and including 2.55 m/11.4 m, up to and including 3.1 m/ 10.5 m and up to and including 3.7 m/8.5 m AND/OR

    Length

    up to and including 25 m AND/OR

    Front overhang

    up to and including 7 m AND/OR

    Rear overhang

    up to and including 7 m

     

    Category 1 requirements

    Hazard warning equipment2

    Operations during daylight hours:
    Excess projections delineated with flags or panels (see 6.14(1) and 6.15(1))
    “OVERSIZE” sign, if width exceeds 3.1 m and vehicle is piloted (see 6.18(1))
    Headlamps on low beam (see 6.19(1))

    Operations during hours of darkness:
    Excess projections delineated with panels (see 6.15(1))
    “OVERSIZE” sign, if width exceeds 3.1 m (see 6.18(1))
    Additional lamps and amber beacon in accordance with 6.19(2) and 6.19(4)

    Travel times

    Restricted travel times (see 6.21(2))

    Minimum piloting requirements

    Operations during daylight hours:
    One Class 2 pilot if the vehicle or load exceeds 3.1 m in width and is travelling in excess of 40 km/h(see 6.33(1) and 6.33(2))

    Operations during hours of darkness:
    One Class 2 pilot if vehicle or load exceeds 3.1 m in width (see 6.33(1) and 6.33(2))
    At all times:
    Additional pilots if required to comply with 6.30 or 6.36

     

    Category 2 dimensions

    Category 2A

    Width / forward-distance1

    exceeding 2.55m/ 11.4 m, exceeding 3.1 m/10.5 m, and exceeding 3.7 m/8.5 m up to and including 2.55 m/13.3 m and up to and including 4.5 m/8.5 m AND/OR

    Length3

    exceeding 25 m, up to and including 35 m AND/OR

    Front overhang

    exceeding 7 m, up to and including 10 m AND

    Rear overhang4

    up to and including 7 m

    Category 2B

    Width, forward-distance, length and front overhang

    Category 1 vehicle
    AND

    Rear overhang4

    Exceeding 7 m, up to and including 10 m.

    Category 2C

    Width, forward-distance, length and front overhang

    Category 2A vehicle
    AND

    Rear overhang4

    exceeding 7 m, up to and including 10 m

     

    Category 2 requirements

    Hazard warning equipment2

    Excess projections delineated with panels (see 6.15(1))
    “OVERSIZE” sign, if width exceeds 3.1 m (see 6.18(1))
    Headlamps on low beam during daylight hours (see 6.19(1))
    Additional lamps if travelling during hours of darkness (see 6.19(2))
    Amber beacon, if width exceeds 3.7 m or travelling during hours of darkness (see 6.19(4))

    Travel times

    Restricted travel times (see 6.22(2) and (3))

    Minimum piloting requirements

    Operations during daylight hours:
    Category 2A and 2B:
    One Class 2 pilot (see 6.34(1))
    Category 2C:
    Two Class 2 pilots (see 6.34(2))

     

    Operations during hours of darkness:
    One Class 2 pilot plus one Class 1 pilot (see 6.34(3))
    At all times:
    Additional pilots if required to comply with 6.30 or 6.36

     

    Category 3 dimensions

    Width / forward-distance1

    exceeding 2.55 m/ 13.3 m and exceeding 4.5 m/8.5 m up to and including 2.55 m/20 m, up to and including 5 m/ 20 m and up to and including 5 m/ 8.5 m. MAY ALSO INCLUDE:

    Length3

    up to and including 35 m AND/OR

    Front overhang

    up to and including 10 m AND

    Rear overhang

    exceeding 7 m, up to and including 10 m

     

    Category 3 requirements

    Hazard warning equipment2

    Excess projections delineated with panels (see 6.15(1))
    “OVERSIZE” sign (see 6.18(1))
    Headlamps on low beam during daylight hours (see 6.19(1))
    Additional lamps if travelling during hours of darkness (see 6.19(2))
    Amber beacon (see 6.19(4))

    Travel times

    Restricted travel times (see 6.23(3))

    Minimum piloting requirements

    One Class 1 pilot plus—

    • 1.  one Class 2 pilot if rear overhang is 7 m or less; or
    • 2.  two Class 2 pilots if rear overhang is >7 m (see 6.35(1) and (2))

    Additional pilots if required to comply with 6.30 or 6.36

     

    Category 4 dimensions

    Category 4A

    Width / forward-distance1

    exceeding 5 m/20 m and exceeding 5 m/8.5 m up to and including 11 m/20 m and up to and including 11 m/8.5 m MAY ALSO INCLUDE

    Length3

    up to and including 35 m AND/OR

    Front overhang

    up to and including 10 m AND/OR

    Rear overhang4

    up to and including 10 m

    Category 4B

    Width, forward-distance, length, front overhang and rear overhang

    exceeding any of the limits for Category 4A

     

    Category 4 requirements

    Hazard warning equipment2

    Excess projections delineated with panels (see 6.15(1))
    “OVERSIZE” sign (see 6.18(1))
    Headlamps on low beam during daylight hours (see 6.19(1))
    Additional lamps if travelling during hours of darkness (see 6.19(2))
    Amber beacon (see 6.19(4))

    Travel times

    Restricted travel times (see 6.25, 6.26 and 6.27)

    Minimum piloting requirements

    Two Class 2 pilots plus one Class 1 pilot (see 6.35)
    Additional pilots if required to comply with 6.30, 6.36, or 6.57(b)

    In addition to these requirements Category 4B must also provide an engineering assessment of the route with the permit application (see 6.51(3)).

    Notes

    Part 2 Width/forward-distance thresholds by Category

    Ref. 6.3

    Width/forward distance thresholds by Category

    Figure 1—Width/forward-distance thresholds by Category for overdimension motor vehicles

    Note: For the purposes of this figure—

    Part 3 Overheight requirements

    Ref 6.8(3)

    Height (m) Requirements

    Greater than 4.3 – up to and including 5

    • (1) Written permission from the owner of an overhead obstruction that the vehicle travelling underneath cannot clear.
    • (2) Written approval from the relevant access provider, if the vehicle travels over a level crossing that does not cross a State Highway, and the vehicle exceeds the height shown on an electrified railway safe height sign.
    • (3) For loads exceeding 4.8 m, a vehicle with a deck height less than 1.3 m above the road must be used.

    Greater than 5 – up to and including 6.5

    • (1) Obtain an overdimension permit from the Agency.
    • (2) Written permission from the owner of an overhead obstruction that the vehicle travelling underneath cannot clear.
    • (3) Written approval from the relevant access provider, if the vehicle travels over a level crossing that does not cross a State Highway, and the vehicle exceeds the height shown on an electrified railway safe height sign.
    • (4) Written permission from the owner of overhead wires or cables that the vehicle travels under.
    • (5) A vehicle with a deck height less than 1.3 m above the road must be used.

    Greater than 6.5

    • (1) Obtain an overdimension permit from the Agency.
    • (2) Written permission from the owner of an overhead obstruction that the vehicle travelling underneath cannot clear.
    • (3) Written approval from the relevant access provider, if the vehicle travels over a level crossing that does not cross a State Highway, and the vehicle exceeds the height shown on an electrified railway safe height sign.
    • (4) Written permission from the owner of overhead wires or cables that the vehicle travels under.
    • (5) A vehicle with a deck height less than 1.3 m above the road must be used.

    [Note: An overdimension permit may impose travel restrictions (see 6.52(2)).]

    Schedule 7 Specifications for signs

    Part 1 Hazard warning panels

    Ref. 6.15

    Dimensions of hazard warning panel

    Figure 7.1—Minimum dimensions of hazard warning panel (Ref. 6.15(1)(c), and (d))

    Dimensions of hazard warning panel

    Figure 7.2—Minimum dimensions of alternative orientation of hazard warning panel (Ref. 6.15(1)(c), and (d))

    Dimensions of hazard warning panel

    Figure 7.3—Minimum dimensions of alternative hazard panel (Ref. 6.15(1)(c) and (d))

    Orientation of hazard warning panel

    Figure 7.4—Orientation of hazard warning panels (Ref. 6.15(1)(a)(i))

    Part 2 “Oversize” sign for overdimension motor vehicle

    Ref. 6.18

    Dimensions of oversize sign

    Figure 7.5—Dimensions of “OVERSIZE” sign for overdimension vehicles (Ref. 6.18(2))

    Part 3 Pilot vehicle signs

    Ref. 6.42(3) 6.43(3) and 6.44(1)

     Table 7.1—Specifications for pilot vehicle signs

    Wording of warning sign Letter size and stroke width (all upper case) Size of sign Colour of background Colour of wording Size and colour of border
    Day Night Day or night Day or night

    DANGER SLOW DOWN

    200 mm/28 mm
    150 mm/21 mm

    1100 mm x
    600 mm

    Fluorescent yellow-green

    Fluorescent yellow-green retro-reflective

    Matt black

    None

    WIDE LOAD FOLLOWS” OR “WIDE LOAD AHEAD

    150 mm/21 mm
    150 mm/21 mm

    1100 mm x
    520 mm

    Fluorescent yellow-green

    Fluorescent yellow-green retro-reflective

    Matt black

    Black 12 mm

    HOUSE FOLLOWS” OR
    HOUSE AHEAD

    150 mm/21 mm
    150mm/21 mm

    1100 mm x
    520 mm

    Fluorescent yellow-green

    Fluorescent yellow-green retro-reflective

    Matt black

    Black 12 mm

    LONG LOAD FOLLOWS” OR “LONG LOAD AHEAD

    150 mm/21 mm
    150 mm/21 mm

    1100 mm x
    520 mm

    Fluorescent yellow-green

    Fluorescent yellow-green retro-reflective

    Matt black

    Black 12 mm

    “PILOT VEHICLE” This face is to be displayed on the reverse side of all the above signs

    150 mm/21 mm
    150 mm/21 mm

    1100 mm x 520/600 mm

    Matt black

    Matt black

    White
    If used at night white retro-reflective

    White 12 mm
    If used at night white retro-reflective

     

    Table 7.2—Order of display of pilot vehicle signs by load width

    Width

     

    Greater than 3.1 m and up to and including 5 m wide

    Greater than 5 m wide

    Less than 3.1 m wide, but requires pilot because of excess rear overhang or because it is greater than 25 m overall length

    First pilot

    WIDE LOAD FOLLOWS

    DANGER SLOW DOWN

    LONG LOAD FOLLOWS

    Second pilot (if required)

    WIDE LOAD FOLLOWS

    WIDE LOAD FOLLOWS” OR “HOUSE FOLLOWS” AS APPROPRIATE

    LONG LOAD FOLLOWS

    Load

    Rear pilot (if required)

    WIDE LOAD AHEAD

    WIDE LOAD AHEAD” OR “HOUSE AHEAD” AS APPROPRIATE

    LONG LOAD AHEAD

    Dimensions of pilot vehicle sign

    Figure 7.6—Warning sign for pilot vehicle (Ref. 6.42(3), and 6.43(3))

    Schedule 8 Specific route restrictions for overdimension vehicles and loads

    Ref. 6.8(1)(b)

    Auckland Harbour Bridge: Maximum height 4.8 m. A vehicle exceeding 3.1 m in width must contact the Traffic Operations Centre and may travel on this route provided it is accompanied by a Class 1 Pilot Vehicle as authorised by the Traffic Operations Centre.

    Auckland Motorways: No travel on Auckland Motorways if the width exceeds 3.1 m or the height exceeds 4.3 m except for the following:

    Wellington Motorway: Maximum height 4.8 m, maximum width 3.7 m. However, an overdimension motor vehicle exceeding these dimensions may travel on the Wellington Motorway provided it complies with the Agency’s conditions.

    Lyttelton Tunnel: Maximum height 4.27 m, maximum width 2.6 m, towing vehicle and semi-trailer maximum length 23 m, 2 m maximum for load overhanging front or rear of vehicle. However, overdimension vehicles exceeding the above maximums may travel if the following conditions are met:

    Toll Routes: Loads that exceed 3.1m width or 4.3m height are not permitted to travel on any toll route unless the Agency has provided explicit authority to do so. The operator of the overdimension vehicle must comply with any piloting or travel time restrictions required by the Agency.

    [Note: Specific route restrictions are additional to the requirements in section 6.]

    Schedule 9 Travel time restrictions for Category 3 overdimension vehicles and loads

    Ref. 6.23(1)

    Table 9.1—Category 3 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling in city areas

    A Category 3 overdimension vehicle or load must not travel within a city area in the times that are shaded.

    Ref. 6.24(1)

    Table 9.2—Category 3 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling outside city areas

    A Category 3 overdimension vehicle or load must not travel outside a city area in the times that are shaded.

    Schedule 10 Travel time restrictions for Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads

    Part 1 Zones for restricted travel

    Ref. 6.25(1)

    Zone 1

    Area Boundary

    Northland (southern part);
    Auckland;
    Bay of Plenty;
    Waikato

    Kamo and south of Kamo

    Maungatapere and East of Maungatapere

    Maungaturoto and East of Maungaturoto

    North of the intersection of SH 2 and SH 33 Paengaroa

    North of the intersection of SH 5 and SH 1 Tirau

    North of the intersection of SH 3 and SH 31 Otorohanga

    Wellington

    North to McKay’s Crossing

    East to Te Marua including Te Marua

    Christchurch
    (State Highways SH)

    Northern boundary is the Ashley River from the coast to Lehmans Road

    Western boundary is—

    Lehmans Road

    Oxford Road

    Swannanoa Road

    Two Chain Road

    Thompsons Road

    Calders Road

    Sandy Knolls Road

    Hoskyns Road

    Southern boundary is—

    SH 1 between Hoskyns and Burnham Roads

    Burnham Road

    Ellesmere Junction Road

    Edward Street

    Lincoln Tai Tapu Road

    SH 75 to Motukarara

    Gebbies Pass Road

    Governors Bay Teddington Road

    Main Road

    Governors Bay Road

    Park Terrace

    Brittan Terrace

    Simeon Quay

    SH 74 to Lyttelton Port

    Note: Travel on the boundary roads is subject to Zone 3 restrictions

    Zone 2

    Ref. 6.26(1)

    Area Boundary

    Southern Waikato;
    Eastern Bay of Plenty

    The intersection of SH 2 and SH 33 Paengaroa and south of the intersection of SH 2 and SH 33 Paengaroa

    The intersection of SH 5 and SH 1 Tirau and south of the intersection of SH 5 and SH 1 Tirau

    The intersection of SH 3 and SH 31 Otorohanga and south of the intersection of SH 3 and SH 31 Otorohanga

    Opotiki and West of Opotiki

    Te Whaiti and north of Te Whaiti

    North of the intersection of SH 5 and SH 1 at Taupo

    North of Motuoapa

    North of the intersection of SH 32 and SH 41 at Kuratau, but excluding SH 41 and SH 32 (Kuratau to Tokoroa)

    North of the intersection of SH 43 and SH 4 Taumarunui

    North of Awakino

    South Island highways

    SH1 between Rolleston and Tinwald

    Note: Side roads off SH 1 are Zone 3

    Zone 3

    Ref. 6.27(1)

    Area Boundary

    Northland
    (Northern part)

    North of Kamo

    West of Maungatapere

    West of Maungaturoto

    Southern North Island
    (excluding Wellington as defined in Zone 1)

    South of Opotiki

    East of Opotiki

    South of Te Whaiti

    South and east of the intersection of SH 1 and SH 5 at Taupo

    Motuoapa and south of Motuoapa

    The intersection of SH 32 and SH 41 Kuratau including SH 41 and south of the intersection of SH 32 and SH 41

    SH 32 Kuratau to Tokoroa

    The intersection of SH 43 and SH 4 Taumarunui and south of the intersection of SH 43 and SH 4 Taumarunui

    Awakino and south of Awakino

    McKay’s Crossing and north of McKay’s Crossing

    North of Te Marua

    South Island; and
    Stewart Island

    (excluding Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas in Canterbury)

    The boundary roads of Christchurch Area Zone 1
    Note: Zone 3 includes—
     travel on those boundary roads
     SH 1 North from Ashley River
     SH 1 South of Tinwald
     SH 73 West of Sandy Knolls Road

    Part 2 Travel time tables for Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads

    Ref. 6.25(1)

    Table 10.1    Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling within Zone 1

    A Category 4 overdimension vehicle or load must not travel within Zone 1 in the times that are shaded.

    Ref. 6.26(1)

    Table 10.2    Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling within Zone 2

    A Category 4 overdimension vehicle or load must not travel within Zone 2 in the times that are shaded.

    Ref. 6.27(1)

    Table 10.3    Category 4 overdimension vehicles and loads travelling within Zone 3

    A Category 4 overdimension vehicle or load must not travel within Zone 3 in the times that are shaded.

     

     

    Land Transport Rule - Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016 - Rule 41001
    NZ Transport Agency, Waka Kotahi