Pedestrians warned to be wary of change

Photo / Amos Chapple

Pedestrians are being urged to be extra vigilant on the roads while the new two give-way rules are introduced as cars will move differently and some traffic signals may change.

"It's important to remember that these rule changes are not just about changing habits for drivers - it's all road users, including pedestrians, who must adjust," said NZ Transport Agency chief executive Geoff Dangerfield.

"Pedestrians should never pre-empt crossing signals; they should always wait for the green man, and now is more reason than ever to change these habits."

Mr Dangerfield also asked parents to ensure that they talk to their children about being a safe pedestrian and remind them that it is extra important to be careful when crossing the road.

Emergency services, buses, taxis and local authorities say they are bracing themselves for the upcoming give-way rule change with extra instruction for staff.

"Everything possible has been done, but I expect a nervous first couple of weeks," said Taxi Federation executive director Tim Reddish.

From 5am on Sunday, drivers turning right must give way to those turning left - a reversal of the road rules.

"It's a significant habitual change for a professional driver," Mr Reddish said. "Most will be conscious of the new rules, but when you're driving all day everyday, there's a lot of instinctive stuff you do and it will be a matter of overcoming those."

NZ Bus chief risk officer Paul Hume said briefings would remind 1800 bus drivers in Auckland and Wellington of the change before they headed out on Sunday and the following days.

The Fire Service's Paul McGill said a national instruction was being sent out to all staff to reinforce the change.

St John spokeswoman Sarah Marshall said ambulance staff had been directed towards an interactive quiz and video.