Emergency lights
John made this Official Information request to New Zealand Transport Agency
The request was successful.
From: John
Dear New Zealand Transport Agency,
I am writing to seek clarification regarding the use of emergency lights and/or sirens under the emergency services provisions of the Land Transport Act.
Specifically, I would like to understand whether Search and Rescue organisations — for example Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR), Surf Life Saving Search and Rescue (Surf SAR), and Coastguard — are considered emergency services under this legislation, and whether this classification permits the use of emergency warning devices (lights and/or sirens) when responding to a search and rescue callout.
I am particularly interested in whether such use is permitted for the purpose of responding more rapidly to a SAR incident.
Thank you for your time and assistance. I look forward to your response.
Yours faithfully,
John
From: NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Kia ora John
Thanks for your email.
It is illegal and reserved for authorized emergency and specific service
vehicles like police, fire, ambulance, and civil defence, with strict
rules even for volunteer fire members, requiring Fire Region Manager
approval for beacons and sirens on non-fire service vehicles to prevent
misuse and danger, as per [1]NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Fire and
Emergency New Zealand guidelines.
Who can use sirens:
* Police Cars: Enforcement officers use them to signal drivers to stop.
* Ambulances: For urgent medical response.
* Fire Service Vehicles: To attend emergencies.
* Civil Defence & Defence Force: As designated emergency vehicles.
Ngā mihi,
Kate
Senior Customer Service Representative
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
From: [email address]
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 10:20 AM
To: [email address]
Subject: FW: Official Information request - Emergency lights
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Kia ora team
Can the below please be answered as BAU?
Ngā mihi
Chanell
Ministerial Services
Te Waka Kōtuia | Engagement & Partnerships
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
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