The safest option is to turn your mobile off, let calls go to voice messaging and pick up your TXTs and voicemails when you've stopped driving. If it's important, find a safe place to pull over and park.
Under the new law you are allowed to make a call using a hands-free kit. But remember, the mental distraction of a hands-free conversation is still a hazard. Reduce this by keeping calls short, keeping the conversation simple and using hands-free only when driving conditions are suitable.
You can find out more about hands-free solutions at your local Vodafone store or our online shop.
The key part of the new rule is that you can't use a mobile phone while driving in any way.
Unless
NB Under no circumstances can you use a mobile phone for reading or writing TXTs or emails while driving.
See the New Zealand Transport Agency's information on the full details of the new Rule: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/about/road-user-rule-info.html
The Transport Minister has confirmed that the law is not intended to ban the usage of other, non-telecommunications features of a mobile which could legally be used on other devices. This includes the usage of a GPS enabled phone with a dedicated satellite navigation software, such as Vodafone Compass, and using a mobile as an MP3 player. This is provided that the device is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and is manipulated infrequently and briefly.
The Ministry of Transport is currently clarifying the interpretation of the new Rule. We will update this information when the new information becomes available. The new interpretation will still ban using a mobile while driving for reading or writing TXTs, emails, or for accessing the internet.
