When you ford a river in a 4WD, there are some rules:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- The use of the ford must not cause a conspicuous change in colour or visual clarity beyond a 100m mixing zone downstream of the ford for more than 30 consecutive minutes after use of the ford.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A new ford is not permitted in a river listed in a regional plan or water conservation order as a habitat for threatened indigenous fish or a fish spawning area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you are creating a new river crossing, the relevant regional council must be given written notice, as per clause 38.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Permits and permissions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before attempting a river crossing, determine whether permission is required. Many waterways in New Zealand cross private land, and landowner consent may be necessary. Additionally, some rivers run through conservation areas or protected land, which may have specific restrictions or requirements for vehicle access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s prudent to check with the relevant regional council before planning a trip that includes river crossings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Environmental impact assessment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Each river crossing has potential environmental consequences. Before proceeding, drivers should assess these impacts and consider alternatives if the crossing would cause significant harm. Factors to consider include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Presence of spawning fish or nesting birds<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fragility of the riverbank vegetation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Potential for sediment disturbance and downstream effects<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Risk of contamination from vehicle fluids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Many waterways support threatened native species like k\u014dkopu, k\u014daro, and various invertebrates. Disturbance during breeding seasons can be particularly damaging to these populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best practices for minimising environmental impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.drivingtests.co.nz\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/SUV-Crossing-River-in-Majestic-Mountain-Landscape-720x393.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoosing appropriate crossing points<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Select established crossing points where the riverbed is firm and the banks are stable. Look for areas with a gravel bottom rather than silt or mud, as these are less likely to be disturbed during crossing. Avoid crossing at bends in the river where erosion is naturally more severe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Timing considerations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Timing can significantly affect the environmental impact of a crossing. Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.drivingtests.co.nz\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Off-Roader-Clearing-Vines-from-Mud-Covered-Tire-720x393.jpg\"){kind=spacer}
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