All traffic signs installed on or near a road must be authorised by the relevant road controlling authority. The legal requirements for traffic signs are given in Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004 and amendments.
Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004
If you are unable to locate a sign, email tcd@nzta.govt.nz for assistance.
The copyright of the traffic sign specifications on this website is the property of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi). Reproduction of the traffic sign images does not require copyright approval, except where specifically noted on the sign or symbol. The downloadable files can be used for commercial and non-commercial purposes without approval of Waka Kotahi.
The traffic sign images available on this website must not be used in any visual media (eg, roadside advertising) which is installed on a road or in a place visible from a road unless it is a legitimate traffic sign authorised by the relevant road controlling authority. See Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004.
Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004
Waka Kotahi does not encourage the use of non-standard traffic sign formats (ie, those not depicted in the specifications on this website) in any visual media. The standard shape, colour and legend of traffic signs have been carefully designed to help road users quickly see and understand them.
Repeated use of non-standard traffic sign formats in any form of media could result in road users' quick recognition and correct response to traffic signs being diminished.
MOTSAM has been replaced by the Traffic control devices manual (TCD manual) and will be removed from our website early in 2023.
MOTSAM signs codes have not been issued to new signs for many years and from early 2023 will no longer be listed on the Signs Specifications page. Refer to the TCD manual for best practice guidance on the application of traffic control devices.
The dimensions of some signs on this website have changed. The changes have been made in consultation with the Road Safety Manufacturers’ Association to standardise signs of similar size and purpose, to improve efficiency in the manufacturing process and minimise waste of the base materials. Changes to dimensions are relatively small and will not affect the cost of manufacturing signs.
Regardless of the changes, all signs described on this website conform substantially with the specifications in Schedule 1 of Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004 and are deemed to be authorised traffic signs in accordance with the Rule.
Industry and road controlling authorities can request corrections to the manuals and specifications by completing the following online form:
Traffic control devices corrections reporting form
For general public reporting of traffic signs please send us a question or feedback using our online form or call our Contact Centre.
