driving in NZ in September

[flunkJr]

Hello!
I am going with my mom to New Zealand and will be arriving in Auckland leaving thru Christchurch for a total of 9 days.

I am contemplating driving from Auckland--through the scenic routes--to wellington--the ferry-nelson-and thru west coast to christchurch.. is that too much? Also, is the weather in the south island in September suitable for driving?

Thanks ahead!

[Jenna]

Weather in September is good for driving in New Zealand, so you won't have any problems driving around both of New Zealand islands.

Having said this, you may be required to fit snow chains in some parts of the south island (particularly the alpine ares) but you'll get plenty of opportunity to find this out beforehand, so don't worry about it.

Both of the routes you mentioned offer great scenery so they both will give you the scenery and experience you're looking for. In fact, pretty much anywhere you drive in New Zealand is so impressive that you won't really be disappointed either way.

[wanderer]

You'll have to share your stories with us now that's September. How was/is your trip going? How did the driving go?

[qlopanl]

if anyone in this forum is looking to drive in New Zealand for the first time, you need to know a few important things:

1. Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road
2. You do not require an internationaldriver's licence but you must have your local driver's licence whenever driving.
3. Speed limits are in kilometres not miles per hour (mph).
4. the speed limit in towns and cities is usually 50 kilometres
5. The speed limit on the open road is 100 kilometres
6. New Zealand has strict drink-driving laws so, do not drink and drive
7. Seat belts must be worn at all times whilst driving in New Zealand.