Monday, February 23, 2009

A Tourist's Guide to New Zealand Road Signs

While we're on the subject of driving, here's a collection of some of the more interesting road and traffic signs we saw on our nearly 3,700 mile (6,000k) drive throughout New Zealand. We've supplied explanations where neccesary.

One of the more mundane "curve ahead" signs that we saw on our various drives. If I remember correctly, this one was yet another example of Kiwi understatement.




Dan found these signs particularly interesting. But don't get too excited--they simply warn drivers that there's a bumpy road coming up.


This next one I think you can figure out on your own:


Nearly every town of nearly every size across New Zealand featured signs like these, notifying drivers of public toilets, camping facilities and picnic areas.


Laura's favorite sign. Could you imagine a "When Frosty" sign in the USA?


Warning: Rockvalanche.


The famous One Lane Give Way signs. This sign tells you that a one-lane road (or more likely a one-lane bridge) is coming up, and the oncoming traffic has the right of way.


Just in case you are unsure about which side of the road to drive on. I'll admit that as lifetime right-side-of-the-road drivers, there were times when we were unsure:


Some of the bridges can be a bit rickety in New Zealand, particularly in the less-populated regions of the South Island.


Yet another One Lane Give Way sign. There are hundreds of bridges just like this one scattered all over the country.


Another excellent example of Kiwi understatement.


Parking signs. This one says you can park for up to 10 minutes between the arrows.


One of Dan's favorites. Some New Zealand roads are made of gravel, or of small pebbles essentially sealed to the road with tar. This sign warns drivers to slow down so their tires won't kick up loose pebbles into other cars.


Free coffee for drivers. Is this country a paradise or what?

2 comments:

Unknown said...

What about the crossing kiwi sign? ;-)

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