Temporary warning signs in New Zealand

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 other 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