About other road users

Information for riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational devices

Mobility devices include motorised wheelchairs and similar devices. Wheeled recreational vehicles include skateboards and foot propelled scooters.

A mobility device is a vehicle that:

  • is designed and constructed (not merely adapted) for use by people who require mobility assistance due to a physical or neurological impairment, and
  • is powered solely by a motor that has a maximum power output not exceeding 1500W, or
  • is a vehicle that the NZTA has declared under section 168A(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998 to be mobility device.

A wheeled recreational device is:

  • a vehicle that is a wheeled conveyance (other than a cycle that has a wheel diameter exceeding 355mm) and that is propelled by human power or gravity, and
  • includes a conveyance to which are attached one or more propulsion motors that have a combined maximum power output not exceeding 300W.

Safety rules for riders of mobility devices and wheeled recreational vehicles.

  • When riding on any path you must be careful and considerate of others using the path.
  • Your speed must not constitute a hazard for others using the path.
  • When using footpaths you have the same obligations as pedestrians at traffic lights.
  • A mobility device should be used on the footpath where it is possible to do so. If you have to ride on the road you should keep as near as practicable to the edge.
  • When you are riding a wheeled recreational vehicle on a footpath you must give way to pedestrians and drivers of mobility devices.

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Last updated: 13 May 2010