Should the legal driving age be raised to 17?
Send us Your Views.
The Herald asked people in rural Bay of Plenty for their reaction to Government proposals to raise the national driving age from 15 to 17.
It's a good idea from a safety perspective, it could bring the road toll down. But it could be inconvenient. Judging by my own three kids, we've definitely benefited from them being able to get their licence early. They can get themselves to school, and none of them have a bad driving record.
Roly McLeod, 57, orchardist.
In terms of safety it is a good idea. It seems like common sense. When you're 15 it doesn't feel young, but when you're 50 you've seen a different side of life. My children already have their licences. And it has been helpful for us that they can get to school, to sports, to music.
John Scrimgeour, 56, dairy farmer.
I have two kids, and it will make my life a lot easier if they can drive the longer distances. We don't have buses here. I don't think changing the limit will make much difference. If kids want to drive they will. If the age limit is 15 they will be doing it legally, and are more likely to be getting training.
Rita Heather, 38, shop assistant.
It would probably have a big impact on rural areas, making life a lot harder. It is a balance between safety and convenience. Raising it to 17 wouldn't make a difference. The same safety problems will still be there. Changes to driver licence testings, focusing on the skills may work better.
Marcelle Morrison, 45, parking officer.
It is a good idea. Teenagers could be getting instructions and learning the rules from the age of 15, but driving from 17. But in a rural area we have no public transport, and it would hit the communities hard. Perhaps they could keep it at 15 for scooters and motorbikes.
Steve Cordery, 45, principal.
It doesn't bother me because I already have my licence and I'm not too far away from town. I hardly use it. But I can see how it could be bad for others who live further out. I know people who would have a lot of trouble getting to school, getting into town.
Michael Young, 16, student.
