Understanding the New Zealand Road Code

A course to help speakers of English as an additional language to gain their learner's licence and drive safely in New Zealand.

Learn about New Zealand’s road rules
Study for the Learner Driver Theory Test
For people with English as a Second Language

Join our ESOL Road Code course

English is not your first language, and do you need help gaining your drivers licence?
English Language Partners can help!

The ESOL Road Code course prepares English learners to take their learner driver theory test, and to understand the road rules so they can drive safely in New Zealand.

Topics include: road signs, navigating roundabouts, intersections and pedestrian crossings, changing lanes, parking, following directions and responding in an emergency.

The programme handbook provides lesson maps outlining the topic, learning outcomes, suggested resources, lesson ideas and follow up tasks. Lesson content comes from the official New Zealand Road Code, Driving Test EZY book and DVD, and a variety of online resources and practice tests.

This programme is delivered intensively over 4 - 10 weeks (depending on your starting level). We have in-class and online options available.

Next available Road Code courses

Centre: Auckland South
Days & times:
Mondays. 9.00am - 1.00pm
Dates:
9 October - 1 December 2023
Location:
Online
Additional information:
Low level class with Chinese speaking teacher and Dari/Farsi CLA

Centre: Hamilton
Days & times:
Tuesdays and Thursdays. 4.00 - 6.00pm
Dates:
10 October - 30 November 2023
Location:
ELP Hamilton, Settlement Centre Waikato, Hamilton 3214

Centre: Porirua
Days & times:
Fridays. 9.30am - 12.00pm
Dates:
13 October - 1 December 2023
Location:
Online
Additional information:
Bilingual class English and Urdu

No items found.

FAQs

Can I learn English online with English Language Partners?

You can learn online if:

  • you live in New Zealand
  • are a resident or citizen of New Zealand
  • speak English as a second language
  • are 16 years or older and not attending school
  • we have a course that meets your needs

We will talk to you about the courses available.

You cannot learn online if you are on a temporary visa such as a:

  • Working holiday visa
  • Visitor/tourist visa
  • Student visa

How long are courses?

Our courses vary in length. It depends on the course. Many are 8 weeks, others can vary between 2 and 18 weeks long.

How much does it cost?

Our online courses are free to residents and citizens.

Can I study after work?

Yes. We have courses for people who work during the day and want to study in the evening.

What will I learn?

You will learn the English you need to live independently in New Zealand. Our courses help people with daily life, finding work, and future study. We will help you communicate in Kiwi English. You can also learn about Kiwi culture.

Can I study for the IELTS test?

Yes. In some centres. We sometimes offer online IELTS classes too.

What level are classes?

All levels. Courses are from beginner to advanced levels. We assess your level before placing you in a course. If a course at your level is not immediately available, we will place you on a class waitlist.

Can I study grammar?

Yes. Some courses have a specific grammar focus. Other courses include grammar as part of the course content.

How many hours each week are courses?

Most of our courses are part-time. Some are two hours each week, other courses are longer – up to 10 hours. You can join more than one class.

My computer system isn’t very good – can I join?

You need a reliable internet connection, a camera and a microphone.

You can join the "ESOL Road Code" course if you:

  • live in New Zealand
  • are a New Zealand resident visa holder or citizen
  • speak English as an additional language
  • are 16 years or older

Register your interest by completing the online form below. Or contact our centres in Auckland South, Hamilton or Porirua directly.

About English Language Partners

We have 21 centres and teach over 7,000 students in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our English courses help people feel welcome and settle into everyday life and work here.

We are not-for-profit, and all our courses are free or low cost for former refugees and migrants.

Polina Belenitskaia

LEARNER

If I hadn't taken your Road Code courses, I wouldn't have gotten my driver's license for another million years. After your lessons, it turned out to be very simple, in 10 minutes I got my first driver's license in my life!

Come see us

We have 21 centres nationwide. Get in touch for a friendly chat.
We would love to talk to you!

Like us to contact you?
Give us your details and we
will be in touch

ESOL Road Code