Foreign drivers visiting New Zealand will be able keep using their license here for up to two years after an amendment was approved by Cabinet.
(File image). Photo: 123RF
The amendment, which was made with consideration to border closures, comes into effect today and temporarily extends the period that overseas driver licence holders can drive in New Zealand from 12 month to up to 24 months.
The Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said at least 20,000 people with overseas drivers licences were approaching the cut-off date within the next six months.
General manager of regulatory services Kane Patena said the time extension would help to sustain work in horticulture and viticulture sectors, which largely employ foreigners.
"The Amendment Rule provides overseas licence holders with more time to apply to convert to a New Zealand licence, helping manage the numbers and flow of applicants - both domestic and international - to the driver licensing system."
It will revert back to the previous one-year limit at the end of March 2022.