Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004, rule 7.3A
In general, you cannot use your mobile phone while driving. This ban covers situations where you’re holding the phone and using it to text, email, make calls, watch videos, or for any other communication. It includes when you’re stopping at an intersection, traffic lights, or you’re waiting in a queue of traffic. The penalty for this is a $150 fine and 20 demerit points.
The only time you can use your mobile phone while driving is when it’s “hands-free” – for example, when your phone is mounted on the dashboard with voice recognition on. NZTA recommends this for things like navigation and music that you set up before you start driving. For a full breakdown of legal phone use while driving, see the Waka Kotahi in “Where to go for more support”.