Friday, 17 May 2013 16:44

Amber beacons mandatory from June

Written by 

FROM JUNE 1 it will be mandatory to have an amber beacon flashing on farm vehicles on the road.

 

It’s one of a suite of changes to rules governing agricultural vehicles on roads which were signed off by Assoicate Minister of Transport, Michael Woodhouse, earlier this month.

Rural Contractors New Zealand executive director Roger Parton told Rural News the changes make “significant concessions” for vehicles travelling under 40kmh but there’s more compliance for those who go over 40kmh.

A requirement for Warrants of Fitness on 40kmh-plus vehicles comes into force November 11 – Remembrance Day. No warrant or work time rules apply on slower vehicles but they must be roadworthy. Parton welcomes the sign-off and acknowledges the assistance of the Ministry, New Zealand Transport Association and NZ Police in developing the new rules.

“Having the new rules in place for the next season while make life easier for the industry and safer for the motoring public in that everybody will understand the clear rules.”

A nationwide roadshow of meetings explaining the changes started yesterday, April 22, in Blenheim and concludes May 30 in Levin.

• See www.ruralcontractors.org.nz

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