Motorhomes
Motorhomes include many different types of vehicles, ranging from bus conversions to purpose-built vehicles.
The standards and safety requirements your motorhome needs to meet depend on its vehicle class. For example if it's a heavy vehicle - with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) over 3500 kilograms - it must meet specific requirements for brakes, tyres and steering and will need a six-monthly certificate of fitness. It also needs to meet motorhome safety belt requirements.
If you modified another vehicle to build your motorhome, it will probably need specialist certification.
Not sure of the vehicle class of your motorhome?
Motorhomes imported from overseas may not fall within the standard dimensions allowed on New Zealand roads. Learn about the requirements for overdimension vehicles. But be aware that if your motorhome is too big, you may not be able to use it on the road.
Caravans and light trailers
Caravans are usually 'light vehicles' - those with a GVM under 3500 kilograms. This means they fall within the vehicle class of 'light trailer'. Light trailers include boat trailers, garden trailers and horsefloats.
Find out the specific requirements for light trailers.
Keep your passengers safe
It's illegal to carry a passenger in your caravan when travelling on the road.
Caravans imported from overseas may not fall within the standard dimensions allowed on New Zealand roads. Learn about the requirements for overdimension vehicles. But be aware that if your caravan is too big, you may not be able to use it on the road.
Tips for towing
- You can't travel more than 90km/h when towing trailers or other vehicles on the open road. You can only travel at this speed if you have a rigid connection between the vehicles.
- If you have a non-rigid connection between the vehicles (like a rope) you cannot exceed 50km/h on any road.
- Don't tow a trailer or another vehicle at the maximum speed unless you're sure you can do so comfortably and safely.
- Leave at least a four-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead - even more in bad weather. The extra weight you're towing can dramatically affect your ability to slow down and stop.
Leave at least a four-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead
- Slow down before curves and avoid braking suddenly - especially on gravel or greasy roads. Use a lower gear when travelling downhill.
- Don't overload your trailer as this will affect its stability and control at any speed.
See more tips on towing in the Guide to safe loading and towing - for light vehicles. You'll find detailed advice on loading and towing practices to keep you within the law and protect you, your goods and others on the road.
