You must have a current and valid drivers licence to drive in New Zealand.

You can use a current valid licence from another country or an International Driving Prmit (IDP) for up to one year. (Please note if your drivers licence is not written in English you should have an IDP or an English translation of your licence should you be required to show your licence if stopped by the police)

If you are planning stay in New Zealand and drive for longer than the one year period you should apply for a new Zealand drivers licence as soon as possible after your arrival.

Its a good idea to try and familarise your self with as much of the New Zealand road code before you take your first drive.
Be a passenger and ask the driver to explain some of the road rules as you are travelling. This is a really low risk way to get to understand the different traffic movements.
Seat belts are compulsory in New Zealand for the Driver and all passengers.
In New Zealand we drive on the left hand side of the road.

"Give Way" & "Stop"

Two important signs you will see the "Give Way" and the "Stop" signs.

When you see a "Give Way" sign, slow down and be ready to stop. Let all other trafffic go first, except vehicles that have stopped at a "Stop" sign. Do not drive on until it is safe for you and all other traffic.

The "Stop" sign This means you must stop completely for all other traffic and only drive on when it is safe.

At intersections that do not have "Give Way" or "Stop" signs or traffic lights, the general rules are:

If you are turning, give way to all vehicles that are not turning.
In all other situations give way to vehicles crossing or coming from your right.