In addition to the requirements above, the law requires that every light vehicle and trailer combination must be capable of stopping within a distance of seven metres from a speed of 30km/h. Although the law does not require these tow ratings to be followed, the NZ Transport Agency recommends that they be taken into account. Most vehicles have tow ratings given to them by the manufacturer specifying the gross trailer weight braked, unbraked, or both, that the vehicle can safely tow. Loads overhanging the vehicle or trailer.Loading your vehicle and trailer safely.This guide contains detailed advice on loading and towing practices to keep you within the law and protect you, your goods and others on the road. Incorrect loading is a factor in around 27 light vehicle crashes a year including one death and five serious injuries. On average, seven people a year are killed and 45 seriously injured in crashes involving a light vehicle towing a trailer (the word trailer includes caravans, as well as boat, horse and garden trailers). Guide to safe loading and towing for light vehicles
