Basic Q & A on Electric Scooters in New Zealand
In a few winks, New Zealand becomes the scenic backdrop of a breakthrough, technological innovation – the personal mobility devices. Entering the kiwi market are MEARTH’s high-performing, top-tier, superior quality, electric scooters in different categories. From entry level commuter, long range and on-and-off-road heavy duty personal mobility devices.
By definition, the word electric scooter simply means ‘electronic scooter.’ E-scooters are swiftly gaining and increasing in popularity, globally. From what was once a mere plaything for children and teens, today’s e-scooters are used as an affordable alternative mode of transport by teens and adults. Students, office workers, business professionals can be seen riding to work looking so cool, and then later head back home, in a jiffy. Get to know more about electric scooters playing in the big cities as it will be a big help in making your trip faster, smoother, and more fun too. So let’s dive in:
Q 1. - Is riding an E-Scooter legal in New Zealand?
A - Unlike in the UK, where riding an e-scooter is illegal, including in some countries around the world, there are various restrictions on the riding of an e-scooter, New Zealand allows you to ride freely. You can ride your e-scooter on the footpath, shared paths, separated cycle paths, and on the road. According to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), e-scooters are not classified as motor vehicles, and as such, you can ride one without the need to secure a license or registration.
Q 2. - How can you legally ride e-scooters?
A - When riding on the footpath, you must ride in a careful and considerate manner at a speed that doesn’t put others at risk. By law, you’re also required to give way to others –to both pedestrians and drivers of mobility devices. You must comply, while on the road, with the speed limit of the road and to ride very close to the border or on the edge of the thoroughfare. While it’s not compulsory, you are advised to use a helmet while riding your e-scooter. It’s for your safety.
Q 3. – Where are electric scooters allowed in New Zealand?
A – In 2020, NZTA has decided any e-scooter can be ridden on the footpath, shared paths, and on the road. Again, wearing a helmet is not legally required but it is highly recommended.
Q 4. - How fast do e-scooters go?
A - E-scooters are made for the urban setting. It is not intended for highway or traveling long distances where you would truly need to use more speed. Take note that the top speed of the majority of the electric scooters is usually around 20 mph. Many factors determine the speed, like battery capacity, wattage of the motor, tires, terrain, the rider’s weight, and others.
Q 5. - What is the speed limit for e-scooters in NZ?
A – An electric scooter’s speed limit 20 km/h. These PMDs are compelled to be fitted with a gear or equipment similar to bicycles like lights, brakes, reflectors and a bell. Further, the new rules set a minimum age of 14 and a 20 km/h maximum speed. The electric scooters are allowed to ride on roads and cycle paths only. They are absolutely forbidden to ride on the pavement.
