Safe driving 
The New Zealand Transport Agency has a comprehensive list of safe driving tips.
In car parks and supermarkets try to avoid end of line parks. We find a lot of our vehicles are damaged by others in these parks.
Efficient driving
Reduce fuel use by following these tips (Source: Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority):
Avoid unnecessary driving:
- use public transport
- walk or cycle
- car pool
- plan ahead to reduce the number of trips and how far you travel.
Drive with a smile:
- go easy on the pedal (accelerate smoothly through the gears and change early)
- look ahead (watch your following distance)
- keep within the speed limit and what is safe for the road conditions
- avoid driving in congested traffic
- ease off the accelerator at the top of hills.
Maintain your vehicle:
- keep tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (check when cold)
- have your wheel alignment checked regularly
- engine maintenance – have older vehicles checked every six months; new ones according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keep vehicle load to a minimum:
- remove roof racks and roof rack load when not required
- remove unnecessary weight
- close windows and sunroofs when travelling at open-road speeds.
Turn off the extras:
- use air vents instead off air conditioning
- use rear-screen de-mister only when necessary.
Switch off engine when idling for more than 30 seconds:
- allow plenty of time to restart engine
- when starting from cold, switch on and drive off immediately but stay light on the throttle for the first few minutes.
Longer term – choose the right vehicle:
- choose a vehicle to suit your needs
- try to find out the fuel economy of the vehicle you are considering buying
- generally the smaller the engine capacity, the better the fuel consumption.
Tyre maintenance
For all tyre services, go to Firestone Direct. We obtain a discount. Quote Account No. 512360, your name and registration number so accounts can be forwarded. (Find a Firestone Direct near you)
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