Convertible code: A beginner's guide

Rule number one: slap on some sunscreen before heading out in your soft-top. Photo / Supplied

Before you take the roof off your convertible and hit the roads of New Zealand this summer, keep these important factors in mind:

* Remember to slip, slop, slap before you (and your passengers) drive off. Make sure you have a hat that is secure once you hit the open road, and put sunblock on your face, hands and arms. And don't forget to reapply sunblock during the day.

* If you start singing along to a song on your car stereo, you'll quickly have an audience - be it from cars near you or pedestrians. So, unless you sound like Jennifer Lopez, best keep your singing for the shower.

* It's also best to keep your grooming for the bathroom, too - you really don't want fellow drivers watching you apply lipstick/shape your moustache at the traffic lights.

* Secure your stuff in the boot when you're not in the car.

* Any debris lying on the floor of the convertible or on the seats will be blown around once you start to drive, so secure it before taking off.

* Keep your handbag or briefcase in the boot of the car if you are driving in rush hour/city traffic with the roof down. You don't want an unscrupulous pedestrian to lean into the car and nick your possessions.

* Practise putting up the roof - you don't want to be caught out in a sudden storm.

* Roadsters are two-seaters and many other convertibles have small rear seats - suitable for quick trips or kids only.

* Before you yell abuse at a bad driver, remember they will hear you, unlike when the roof's on.