This is because certain sections of roads in New Zealand are not built to the same strength specifications as in other countries. Second, limits to axle mass are imposed to protect the road infrastructure.
For example, you are not allowed to load your vehicle above the specified maximum gross vehicle mass (GVM), gross combination mass (GCM), brake code mass (BCM) or tow a load greater than the drawbar is rated for. You must not exceed the vehicle ratings specified by the vehicle manufacturer for the chassis, axles, tyres and other components of the vehicle. There are two different types of mass limit that apply to your vehicle and its load.įirst, there is the limitation imposed by the vehicle’s design and construction. For example a vehicle’s tare (in kilograms) is its unladen mass, but you would measure it by using a weighbridge. The words ‘mass’ and ‘weight’ are sometimes used interchangeably though they mean the same thing. High productivity motor vehicles What are the general mass (weight) limits on New Zealand roads? These carry a divisible or indivisible load and may be over-length and/or over-weight but not over-width or over-height.
In 2010 a new permit system was introduced for HPMVs. If the vehicle or load exceeds the maximum weights described in this factsheet, and you believe you’re eligible for an overweight permit or specialist vehicle permit, contact your nearest Transport Agency office. If the vehicle or load exceeds the maximum weights described in this factsheet, and you believe you’re eligible for an overweight permit or specialist vehicle permit, contact your nearest Waka Kotahi office. If your vehicle exceeds any of the mass or dimension limits in the Rule, then you will not be allowed to operate it on New Zealand roads, unless it is eligible to be one of the following: Overdimension vehicles or loads What if my vehicle does not meet the mass or dimension limits? However, all heavy vehicles must now meet the static roll threshold requirements (see Static roll thresholds and all heavy-vehicle combinations must comply with the trailer: truck mass ratio (set out on this page). The rule allows vehicles first registered in New Zealand before 1 February 2017 that had complied with previous legislation to continue to comply with dimension and mass limits imposed by that legislation.
It does this by creating limits to the permitted dimensions and mass of vehicles, with particular emphasis on large combination vehicles. The Rule is designed to create a reasonable balance between the efficient operation of the heavy motor vehicle fleet, within the constraints imposed by the road network, while ensuring that heavy motor vehicles are operated safely. Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016