Transport options in and around Dunedin
Can I drive in New Zealand on my existing driver licence?
Before driving in New Zealand, you must have a valid driver licence. You can drive on your international driver licence for one year.
How do I obtain a New Zealand driver licence?
After one year, you must obtain a New Zealand driver licence. You will have to pass a theory test on the New Zealand Roadcode, and a practical test. The LTSA has information on the process and costs, or you can find information and make bookings for testing at one of their authorised agents:
- The Automobile Association (450 Moray Place)
- Vehicle Testing New Zealand (14 Teviot St)
- Vehicle Inspection New Zealand (20 Teviot St)
What are the road rules in New Zealand?
New Zealand's road rules are explained in a book called the Roadcode. You can get a copy of the Roadcode from:
- Dunedin Public Libraries
- Most booksellers
- Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA), free phone 0800 822 422.
What petrol is available in New Zealand and where do I get some?
Petrol (91, 96 and 98 octane), diesel and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) are available at petrol stations. The most common petrol is 91 octane, used in most modern vehicles. Check on the inside of your petrol tank cap for information on which your car takes.
Where can I buy a car?
Although there are car dealers dotted all over Dunedin, there are two stretches of road where car yards predominate. They are Andersons Bay Rd and Kaikorai Valley Rd.
The Land Transport Safety Authority offers advice on buying or selling a vehicle. Pre-purchase inspections are available at a cost from organisations such as the Automobile Association.
Do I have to insure my car?
Insurance is optional in New Zealand, but highly recommended. You can obtain options from car insurance from insurance brokers.
Are seatbelts compulsory here?
Everyone in a car must wear a safety belt, and babies and toddlers must be in child car seats. Plunket can help with information about the rightcar seat for your child, and operates a low-priced rental service.
What about cycling?
Dunedin has cycle lanes covering several routes. The Council publishes a map of cycling routes in and out of Dunedin, which can also be obtained from the DCC CUstomer Sefrvices Agencies.
Can I catch a bus?
Buses run throughout the city on a regular timetable. You can search the Dunedin bus timetables or obtain copies from the offices of the Otago Regional Council at 70 Stafford St, Dunedin or the Dunedin City Council Customer Services Agency, Civic Centre, 50 The Octagon, Dunedin.
How do I catch a taxi?
Taxis operate all over Dunedin city. They can be ordered by phone or at taxi stands in urban areas.
Are there trains here?
There is no regular passenger train service in or out of Dunedin at present. Tourist trains operate from the historic Dunedin Railway Station on a regular basis.
Where can I find maps to get around?
You can find maps of Dunedin at most service stations or book stores. They can be purchased from the DCC's Customer Services Agenciesy and the i-Site Dunedin Visitor Centre.
There are maps online at:
- Dunedin City on WISES (opens in a new window)
- Dunedin on SMAPS (opens in a new window)
- WebMap (opens in a new window)
What about parking in Dunedin?
Parking officers patrol Dunedin's streets and off-street car parks from 8am - 6pm Monday to Thursday, 8am - 9pm Friday and 9am - 4pm Saturday. There are car parking buildings available on Filluel St, Great King Street, and two on Moray Place. These are operated by an independent contractor.
For more information, visit Parking information (opens in a new window)
What else do I need to have a car on the road?
Cars need to be registered once a year, and given a warrant of fitness (checking their roadworthiness) every six months.
If you have a diesel-powered car, you will also need to buy a road user charges licence, which must be kept up to date at all times.
Are there breakdown services?
Breakdown services are available with membership of the Automobile Association or for members of some insurance companies.
Last reviewed: 16 Sep 2008 11:12am
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