Safety on the Roads

People are permitted to ride a horse on the road provided that they abide by the road rules. Horse riders need to apply common sense to ensure they, and other road users, remain safe at all times.

Safety on the road is all about recognising the hazards and minimising risk. You need to manage that risk by taking control of as many elements of your ride as you can: making sure you wear appropriate gear, choosing your route and time carefully.

As a horse rider it is important that you follow the road rules shown below.  They will help ensure your safety when you are riding on the road:

• Always wear a safety hat while riding. Otherwise, a fall from your horse could result in a head injury.
• Ride your horse on the left-hand side of the road and as far to the left as possible.
• Keep your horse on the side of the road whenever you can, but don't ride on footpaths, lawns or gardens.
• Don't ride more than two abreast.
• Don't ride on the right of any moving vehicle.
• If you're leading another animal while riding, always keep it on your left, away from the traffic.
• If you're riding a horse or leading animals at night, wear reflective clothing and carry a torch.

The following website provides some basic guidelines to enhance your safety while riding a horse.

https://horseandrider.com/health-and-advice/safety_rules_kids_052908-20083

You can view 'Information for horse riders' on the NZTA website.

https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/about-other-road-users/information-for-horse-riders/