New road rules to take effect from 1 October
Wednesday 30 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Chris Bishop
Four new road rules will come into effect on 1 October. The changes involve overtaking requirements, including a 1.5m gap when passing road users in the same lane, as well as new regulations for e-scooters and children riding bicycles.
Key facts
5 facts
- Four new road rules commence on 1 October
- Minimum overtaking gap for non-motor vehicle users is 1.5 metres
- Children up to 12 and their caregivers can ride bikes on footpaths
- E-scooters not considered motor vehicles can use cycle lanes
- Government received approximately 6000 responses to transport change proposals
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
Four new road rules will come into effect on 1 October. These changes involve overtaking requirements, e-scooter access, child cycling rules, and bus stop protocols.
Drivers must now leave a minimum passing gap of 1.5 metres when overtaking road users who are not driving a motor vehicle, such as cyclists, pedestrians, or horse riders, in the same lane and direction. NZTA advises that if a safe pass is not possible, drivers should slow down and wait.
Children up to 12 years old are permitted to ride bicycles on footpaths, and their parents or caregivers are now allowed to ride alongside them. This follows feedback that allowing only children on footpaths would force accompanying adults onto the road.
E-scooters that are not classified as motor vehicles are now allowed to use cycle lanes. Additionally, on roads with speed limits of 60km/h or lower, drivers must give way to buses that are leaving a bus stop, moving out of a bus lane, or leaving the side of the road. Bus drivers must indicate their intention to move for at least three seconds.
How it developed
- Wed 30 Sep, 7:18pmOne proposed change regarding council powers to fine people for parking on grass berms did not proceed.
Compiled from reports by The Press, NZ Herald and RNZ.