NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is reminding people of new rules coming into effect from tomorrow (1 October) for the use of New Zealand's roads, footpaths and cycle lanes.

The new lane use rules include changes for people riding bikes and e-scooters, footpaths users, drivers and other road users.

The changes were announced by the Minister of Transport in July 2026 following public consultation earlier this year, and aim to make the rules clearer for everyone, while better reflecting how people travel today.

The changes will: Allow children 12 years old and under to ride bikes on footpaths and allow parents or caregivers to ride with them. Require a minimum passing gap of 1.5 metres when drivers pass other road users. Allow people to ride e-scooters in cycle lanes. Require drivers to give way to buses on roads with speed limits of 60km/h or less. 

Many of these behaviours are already happening on our roads and footpaths. The rule changes provide greater clarity about what is allowed and what people need to do to keep themselves and others safe. 

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is also launching an information campaign to help people understand the new rules and what they mean in practice.

The campaign will run across radio, social media, digital, and outdoor channels and will provide practical information on what has changed. 

NZTA is also working with schools and councils to update cycling skills programme which will include information for children and parents. 

The changes respond to issues raised by road users, councils and advocacy organisations during consultation. More than 6,000 submissions were received, with broad support for the changes overall.