New Zealand Laws for Carrying Bikes on Vehicles

We are not lawyers, but we can provide clear guidance on the rules. If your number plate or vehicle lights are obscured when carrying bikes on a bike rack, you are breaking the law. You could receive 20 to 25 demerit points for each offence, alongside hefty fines. More importantly, you are putting yourself, your family, and other motorists in danger.

Bike Rack Lights Requirements

It is illegal to obscure your vehicle lights when carrying bikes. Your lights must be clearly visible in clear weather from a distance of at least 200 metres, and it is your responsibility to ensure they are clean and in good working condition at all times. If your bike rack or the bikes themselves obscure any of your lights, you must fit an additional light bar or bike rack lights.

Supplementary Number Plates

It is illegal to drive a vehicle with a number plate that is wholly or partially obscured. When a tow bar mounted bike rack or bike carrier is used, it will almost certainly obscure your number plate, meaning a supplementary plate is required. When carrying bikes on the back of a car, it is illegal to simply hang a supplementary plate loosely at the rear. Supplementary plates must be fixed to a hard, flat surface and must be illuminated when driving at night. Furthermore, it is illegal to use homemade supplementary plates or numbers written on cardboard. Only official NZTA supplementary plates are permitted.

Demerit Points and Penalties

Operating a motor vehicle with plates or lights that are wholly or partially obscured, or not easily distinguishable, can result in 25 demerit points for each offence, plus an appropriate fine. Always refer to the NZTA website for the most current general rules on vehicle lighting and supplementary plates.

Protect your family and stay legal. A Safelite bike rack light board will fit most bike racks sold in New Zealand and keep you on the right side of the law.