Driving in New Zealand Updated: 23 March 2012 You need to meet a number of requirements to drive on New Zealand roads. Just like other drivers, you must have a current driver licence; but you may also need an international driving permit or translation if your licence isn't in English. You'll need to consider more permanent arrangements if you're in New Zealand for more than 12 months. Here for a year or more? If you'll be in New Zealand for more than a year, you need to gain a New Zealand driver licence. If your overseas licence is still current or expired less than 12 months ago you can apply to convert it to a New Zealand licence