Here are all the temporary warning signs you are likely to see on New Zealand’s roads. They are primarily deep orange and/or white with black writing. Remember to check out our other sign guides starting here.
Road workers will be present performing maintenance or other services, as indicated | |
These distance signs are often added underneath roadworks signs to indicate how far the roadworks extend. They might not be completely continuous | |
Advance warning of a temporary speed limit ahead | |
General warning signs showing that tradesmen, maintenance workers or other people may be on the road or close to the side of the road | |
General warning signs showing a changed road condition, or another hazard that might not be marked | |
General warning signs for pedestrians or cyclists | |
General warning signs for accidents and emergencies | |
Slow traffic may be crossing or on your route | |
General warning sign | |
Rocks may fall or may have fallen from either the left or right, as indicated | |
Livestock may be on the road | |
Notification of slippery conditions | |
Loose road surface | |
The road is being repaired or there is new seal on the road. There may be loose stones or uneven surfaces | |
Lane management signs indicating lane closures, altered lane flow or unusual merging | |
Distance markings placed under another sign to show how far ahead it becomes effective | |
Lane narrows from left or right, as indicated | |
Temporary exit | |
Temporary traffic lights ahead, e.g. for controlled roadworks site | |
Detour ahead using circle indicator | |
State highway detour | |
Detour ahead using square indicator | |
Detour ahead using diamond indicator | |
Indicates if authorised vehicles, cycles or buses are not required to follow the signage. May be permanent | |
Uneven road surface | |
A sign added to another sign to indicate it’s ahead. May be permanent | |
Road diverges | |
Indicates road or exit is closed | |
Brakes may be wet, therefore dry them by applying your brakes | |
Indication you have reached the end of the roadworks or detour | |
Pedestrian directions around roadworks or a temporary obstruction, e.g. where a temporary footpath is located | |
Directions for cyclists around roadworks or a temporary obstruction | |
Site access with directions and distances. Watch for vehicles slowing down or exiting the site | |
Vehicle-mounted – indication of the purpose of the vehicle | |
Vehicle-mounted instruction | |
Road surface may have dirt which needs to be removed promptly from your vehicle | |
Pass this vehicle or obstruction with care | |
Miscellaneous warning triangle, often carried by motorists for a general warning of a breakdown or accident until emergency services arrive |