Rope towing is a common sight, but is it actually legal? We break down the NZTA Road Code requirements and the significant safety risks involved in DIY towing.
The NZ Road Code Requirements
In New Zealand, towing a vehicle with a rope or "tow-pole" is legal, but it is strictly regulated by the NZTA. If you fail to meet these standards, you risk a fine or, worse, a serious accident.
- Distance: The maximum distance allowed between the two vehicles is 4 meters.
- Visibility: If the distance exceeds 2 meters, you MUST display a clear white flag or marker on the rope.
- Night Driving: At night, the towed vehicle must have working tail lights. If the electrics are dead, you must attach temporary lights.
- Licensing: Both the driver of the towing vehicle and the person steering the towed vehicle must hold a valid driver's license.
The Hidden Dangers
The biggest risk in rope towing is "Brake Failure." Most modern cars use vacuum-assisted brakes. When the engine is off, you only have 1 or 2 "assisted" presses before the pedal becomes incredibly hard to push. Without the engine running, the person in the towed car has to stand on the pedal with immense force to stop.
Additionally, modern steering columns can lock if the key isn't in the "On" position, making it impossible to steer around corners.
Our Advice: For the sake of a few dollars, don't risk your safety or your vehicle's bodywork. A professional tow ensures both vehicles arrive without a scratch.
