'Welcome to the 21st century' - readers respond to give-way change

Transport Minister Steven Joyce will change NZ's give-way rules in 2012. Photos / Sarah Ivey, Alan Gibson

Transport Minister Steven Joyce has confirmed he will change New Zealand's "confusing" and idiosyncratic give-way rules for turning vehicles, bringing them into line with the rest of the world by early 2012.

We asked readers if they thought the change was a good idea.

Joseph said no. "I've been driving one way for 35 years, and many others a lot longer. People won't be able to change a lifetime's habit just like that. It's stupid."

Arhu reckoned the current rule was simple. "If you're confused by the current give way rules, you shouldn't be behind the wheel. They're so very, very simple."

David agreed: "Just learn the bloody rule! I think it is a good rule, all it needs is to be allowed to turn left on a red light to reduce the frustration levels."

Daniel thought the change would cause accidents: "Sounds like change for the sake of change. I can't see it will reduce road accidents in the next few years," he said. "Accidents are more likely to skyrocket in this period as people come to terms with the new rules."

And Stephen reckoned change was pointless, as Kiwis don't follow the road rules anyway. "I imagine that the number of accidents at intersections will remain much the same as drivers in NZ do not obey rules not matter what they are!"

But many other readers supported the change.

"It's about time this stupid rule was changed!" said Jocelyn Albrecht, while Jerry said "NZ, welcome to the 21st century. Time to shake the gravel roads, penny farthings and bicycle clips. This law change is well overdue and at last conforms with international practice."

Sean McGrath thought the current rule was "ridiculous". "I've been back in NZ for 11 years and have been constantly frustrated by our 'backwards' give-way rule."

Andrew said: "About time, it's a stupidly necessary rule that requires poor and unconfident drivers to have to do more thinking than necessary", while Peter McBride said: "Thank god for some sanity at last - no longer do I have to fear the rear-end collision for obeying this stupid rule."

Others supported the change, but wondered why we have to wait until 2012 for it to come into force.

"Do it now before the visitors arrive and get confused!" said Michael, while Bev asked "Why on earth wait until 2012? Get rid of this stupid rule now. To me it is totally illogical and never made sense."