Motorways are designed so that traffic can flow with as little disruption as possible. On a motorway, you shouldn’t come across things that hold up traffic flow, such as intersections, turning vehicles, parked vehicles and pedestrians.

Although the number of hazards are reduced on motorways, you still need to ride carefully as motorway traffic usually moves very quickly.

Motorway signs

Most motorway signs are green with white around the edges.

Pay special attention to signs that show the beginning and end of the motorway, as well as signs that show particular exits.

A green rectangle with white border that reads in white text motorway ends.

A green sign with the text Tawa, use left lane.

A green oblong with white border that reads with white text reading exit, the number 8 and an arrow pointing to the upper left.

Safe riding on motorways

When riding on a motorway:

  • keep left, unless you're passing
  • watch for exit signs
  • get into the correct exit lane in plenty of time
  • signal for at least 3 seconds before you change lanes
  • you must not stop your vehicle, except in an emergency
  • you must not make a U-turn
  • you must not stop to drop off or pick up passengers
  • if you miss your exit, don’t stop and reverse – drive on to the next exit.