Be patient and observe speed limits. The police use speed cameras, both fixed and mobile. Wear your seatbelt: it's a $150 fine if you're caught without it. The police do spot checks for seatbelts and for drunk drivers. And watch out for boy racers, especially on Saturday nights in town. Car rentals are no cheaper here than anywhere else. If you're not used to driving on the left side of the road, rent an automatic and then be extra careful at turns and exiting driveways. It's very easy to end up on the wrong side of the road. (Remember, the driver - not the car - should always be in the center of the road.) There are some odd road rules: e.g., if you're turning left at a corner and an oncoming car is turning right at the same time, the oncoming car has right of way. You can get a copy of the latest Road Code at Automobile Association (AA) offices and some bookstores. Bus services operate in and between cities. There also are specialty tour bus operators. You can find information online ( www.newzealand.com ) or check into the first I-Site Visitor Centre you come across. Camper vans are very popular and there are several chains that rent them. You can park for the night off the road, on a beach or riverside, in a holiday park or camp. The parks are inexpensive and have hookups, showers, kitchens, pools, etc. Automobile Association offices sell directories that list holiday