Auckland Driving

Advice on Driving and Parking in Auckland

Driving In and Around Auckland

Driving in a new country can feel rather daunting, but generally-speaking roads in New Zealand are safe and drivers reasonably courteous to other road users. However, Auckland is considered to be the noteworthy exception and we advise you to check out the current driving conditions in Auckland city before you leave. The major roads in and out of the city can get congested at peak hours and during 'school-runs'. Times to avoid, if possible are: 7– 8.30am and 3.30 – 5.00pm. Our best advice: Relax, take your time, enjoy the views and arrive at the Scenic Hotel Auckland in one piece.

Driving Tips

• We strongly recommend to all drivers unfamiliar with driving in Auckland and New Zealand to read the New Zealand Road Code.
• Remember in New Zealand, cars are driven on the left-hand side of the road.
• New Zealand has a unique give way rule at junctions/ intersections.
• If you are turning, give way to all vehicles that are not turning - in all other situations, give way to vehicles crossing or coming from your right.
• When the traffic light is red, you must stop. Orange traffic lights mean that you must stop if it is safe to do so - it is a warning the lights are about to turn red. Left turns are not allowed on a red light.
• You must not pass another moving vehicle where a solid yellow line appears on your side of the centre line.
• In urban areas, there is a speed limit of 50 km/h unless signed otherwise.
• On most of New Zealand's roads, there is a speed limit of 100km/h unless signed otherwise.
• It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that everyone in the car wears safety belts.
• Babies and infants must be restrained in carseats appropriate to their age at all times.
• Do not drink alcohol and drive.
• Carry a valid and current driver's licence and/or driver's permit with you at ALL times.
• If your licence is not in English, you must carry an approved translation with you.

Central City Car Parking in Auckland

Valet Parking at Scenic Hotel Auckland – Please contact the hotel directly for more information.

It is possible to find short-term parking in Auckland city centre, however, for long-term parking solutions, please contact the staff at the Scenic Hotel Auckland for current advice. The car parks listed below charge by the hour and opening hours are subject to change. However, car parks are clearly signposted with a white P on a blue background.

• K Rd (Karangahape Rd) Cross Street Car Park
• Victoria Street Car Park
• The Civic Car Park
• Fanshawe Street Car Park
• Downtown Car Park

You can not park your car in any of the following places:

• On broken yellow lines
• Bus or transit lanes during the hours of operation (as signposted)
• Where traffic signs say you must not park or stop
• On a marked bus stop or taxi stand

Parking Tip: If in doubt about whether you can park in a space or not, find another clearly signposted parking zone. As in many other cities, parking wardens are vigilant as car parking space is at a premium.