If you have a driver’s licence in your home country, or an international driving permit or driver’s licence, you can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months before applying for a New Zealand licence. People may apply for the first stage of the New Zealand driving licence process on their 15th birthday.
Like the UK and Australia, New Zealanders drive on the LEFT hand side of the road. The maximum speed on the highway is 100kph (62mph) and 50kph (31mph) in built up areas and strict penalties are imposed for speeding, not wearing seat belts or for driving while alcohol impaired.