What a roundabout is
A roundabout is a central island in the middle of an intersection. All vehicles must travel to the left of the island (clockwise around the island). Roundabouts can be small or large, single-laned or multi-laned, with three or more roads joining.
Give way: from your right (not your left)
When you come up to a single-laned or multi-laned roundabout:
- Slow down and be prepared to give way
- Give way to all vehicles that will cross your path from your right as you enter the roundabout
- On multi-laned roundabouts, also be in the correct lane for where you want to go
Classic false statement: “When coming up to a roundabout you must give way to all vehicles that will cross your path from your left.” - False. It’s from your right.
Signalling at roundabouts
Failing to signal the exit is a common practical-test error. Theory questions test the approach signal too.
Turning left (first exit)
- Signal left as you come up to the roundabout
Going straight through
- Don’t signal as you come up to the roundabout
- Signal left as you pass the exit before the one you wish to take
Turning right / more than halfway around
- Signal right as you come up to the roundabout
- Signal left as you pass the exit before the one you wish to take
Pain point: Signalling right when you’re going straight confuses everyone. Straight = no approach signal; left signal only after the exit before yours.
Look out for cyclists - they may find it hard to hold a turn signal on a roundabout and are exempt from this signalling requirement.
Multi-laned roundabouts
Most multi-laned roundabouts have lane markings and arrows. Follow them. Not every roundabout is marked the same - take extra care at exits. If you need to cross into another lane to exit, give way to any vehicles in the lane you want to enter.
Watch for vehicles that may change lanes to exit, and large or fast vehicles that may not stay neatly in lane.
Study checklist
- Give way to the right as you enter
- Left exit → left signal on approach
- Straight → no approach signal; left before your exit
- Right / more than halfway → right on approach; left before your exit
- Follow lane arrows on multi-lane roundabouts
Refresh the wider rules in Give way rules NZ, and sign recognition in Road signs NZ meanings.
FAQ
Do I give way to the left at a roundabout?
No - give way to vehicles that will cross your path from your right.
How do I signal going straight through?
No signal on approach. Signal left after you pass the exit before the one you’re taking.
How do I signal for a right turn?
Right signal on approach; left signal as you pass the exit before yours.