Get moving: Right-hand rule to stay for time being

Q: I have read at various times of plans to change the turning-left-and-giving-way traffic rule back to what it used to be, when a right-turning vehicle had to give way to all traffic. This is what happens in the rest of the world, and it's very confusing when I come back to New Zealand. Are there any such plans? Bob Roper, Indonesia.

A: The right-hand rule (giving way to the right) will not be changing any time soon, says Land Transport NZ. A couple of years ago the old Land Transport Safety Authority proposed a change to bring New Zealand into line with the rest of the world, but the idea was dropped. Any such major alteration in road rules would have to be initiated by the Government via the Ministry of Transport.

Q: Does Auckland City have any plans for the intersection where Robert St meets the Main Highway in Ellerslie? There is a give-way sign for vehicles exiting Robert St but cars at the stop sign in the middle of the Main Highway (to enter Robert St) obstruct the vision of drivers leaving Robert St. The intersection would suit a traffic island, I think. Peter Henderson, Ellerslie.

A: The council has recently changed the road markings at this intersection to improve visibility for southbound drivers turning right from Robert St. It believes that although a roundabout might clarify issues, it could also encourage vehicles using the Ellerslie/Panmure motorway offramp to use the Tecoma St exit instead, putting pressure on the surrounding local roads.

Q: Are motorcycles allowed to use North Shore City's transit lanes? What about the Northern Busway when it's finished? Ian Docking, North Shore.

A: Yes to using the transit lanes and a definite no to using the busway.

Q: There used to be an open green light for traffic turning right from Symonds St into Whitaker Place, with an arrow for cars still waiting at the end of the phase. Now there is only an arrow, which leaves straight-through traffic waiting. Why? Charles Rogers, Grafton.

A: Good question. But it is on the list of intersections due for an upgrade.

* This column is taking a break until August 8.