GUIDED NZ RENTALS – COMPLETE HEALTH & SAFETY MANUAL
1. HEALTH & SAFETY COMMITMENT
Guided NZ Rentals is committed to providing safe vehicles and safe operating procedures for customers, staff, contractors, and the public.
We comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (New Zealand) and take all reasonably practicable steps to minimise risks associated with vehicle rental operations.
2. RESPONSIBILITIES
Management:
• Maintain safe vehicles and systems
• Provide clear safety procedures
• Ensure legal compliance
Staff:
• Perform vehicle inspections
• Report hazards immediately
• Follow safety procedures
Customers:
• Hold valid licence
• Follow NZ road rules
• Report faults or incidents immediately
3. VEHICLE SAFETY MANAGEMENT
All vehicles:
• Serviced to manufacturer schedule
• Maintain valid WOF and registration
• Checked for tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, and seatbelts
• Removed from service immediately if unsafe
4. PRE‑RENTAL SAFETY CHECK
Before each rental:
• Inspect tyres and pressure
• Check dashboard warning lights
• Confirm fuel level
• Verify mirrors and seatbelts
• Record exterior condition
• Photograph vehicle if required
5. WEATHER AND ALPINE DRIVING SAFETY
New Zealand alpine weather can change rapidly.
Drivers must be aware:
• Heavy rain reduces visibility and braking performance
• Snow and ice common in winter
• Black ice may exist even when roads look clear
• Strong winds may affect stability
• Fog may occur suddenly
Drivers must adjust speed to conditions. Snow chains may be legally required on some roads.
6. NEW ZEALAND ROAD CONDITIONS
NZ roads may include:
• Narrow rural highways
• Steep mountain passes
• Sharp bends and blind corners
• Gravel or unsealed roads
• Single‑lane bridges
• Tourist-heavy scenic routes
Drivers must reduce speed on gravel and unfamiliar roads.
7. QUEENSTOWN WINTER DRIVING
Winter risks include:
• snow-covered roads
• hidden ice
• reduced daylight
• freezing temperatures
Drivers must allow extra stopping distance and follow all chain-control or road closure instructions.
Guided NZ Rentals may restrict travel routes during severe weather.
8. ACCIDENT PROCEDURE
If an accident occurs:
1. Stop safely and turn on hazard lights
2. Check for injuries
3. Call emergency services (111) if required
4. Contact Guided NZ Rentals immediately
5. Collect driver and witness details
6. Take photos
Do not admit liability at the scene.
9. BREAKDOWN PROCEDURE
If the vehicle becomes unsafe:
• Pull over safely
• Turn on hazard lights
• Contact Guided NZ Rentals
• Follow roadside assistance instructions
Do not continue driving with serious warning lights.
10. DRUG, ALCOHOL & FATIGUE POLICY
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.
Drivers must not operate vehicles while fatigued or medically unfit.
Violation voids insurance and rental agreement.
11. INCIDENT REPORTING
All incidents must be reported including:
• accidents
• breakdowns
• vehicle damage
• safety concerns
• near misses
Records are maintained for safety compliance and improvement.
12. NZ HEALTH & SAFETY COMPLIANCE
Guided NZ Rentals follows the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
We:
• identify hazards
• assess risks
• implement controls
• monitor incidents
• continuously improve procedures
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in rental termination.
13. Emergency Contact
Emergency Services: Dial 111
Customers must also contact Guided NZ Rentals immediately using the official business contact number.
