It’s no secret, child restraints save lives, plain and simple.
New Zealand has a very clear framework for the management of child safety and child restraints in vehicles. As we start to filter out onto the roads this summer, we thought it’d be useful to cover off exactly what the legal requirements are when it comes to the use of child restraints by age, specific to New Zealand.
Up until 7 years old
New Zealand law states that you must correctly secure your child in approved child restraint.
For children 7-8 years
Correctly secure your child in an approved child restraint if one is available in the vehicle. If not, then any child restraint or safety belt is okay to use.
For children 8-14 years
Must use safety belts if available. If not available, they must travel in the back seat.
For young people 14+ years
Must use safety belts where the’yre available.
The New Zealand Transport Agency recommends the use of an appropriate child restraint or booster seat until a child is 148cm tall, or 11 years old.
It’s recommended to keep a baby in a rear-facing restraint until as old as practicable, at least until they are 2 years of age.
Whose responsibility is it to ensure correct use of child restraints?
Plain and simple, when you’re the driver, it’s your responsibility to ensure the children in your car are safe and protected, whether they’re yours or not.
You can find out more information over on the New Zealand Transport Agency’s website.