Giveway rule to be brought into line

New Zealand's giveway rule will be brought into line with most of the western world when it is changed next year.

Transport Minister Stephen Joyce said the rule change would cut intersection crashes by 7 per cent.

At present, drivers turning left must give way to approaching vehicles turning right. From next year, the right-turning vehicle will have to give way.

A Ministry of Transport spokeswoman said the New Zealand Transport Agency would run a public awareness campaign to educate drivers about the changes.

Other changes include removing a 70kmh speed limit for learner motorcyclists.