Ask Phoebe: Rules on use of fog lights short and sweet

Front fog lamps give off a short, wide beam of light that is designed to shine through the fog. Photo / Thinkstock

I have read recently in various publications stories about the use of fog lights on cars in New Zealand, but no one actually said what the rules are. Can you help please?

Peter Harrison, Auckland

It is against the law to use fog lamps in clear conditions (day or night) as they can dazzle other road users. Short and sweet.

But in the interests of completeness, here is some more information about fog lights, courtesy of the Transport Agency website.

Front fog lamps give off a short, wide beam of light that is designed to shine through the fog, lighting up the area directly in front of the vehicle and helping the driver see the sides of the road better.

You may have up to two front fog lamps fitted to your vehicle.

If your vehicle already has two front fog lamps fitted as original equipment, you cannot fit a second pair. Fog lamps should be wired so they can be turned on or off independently of the headlamps.

Some vehicles are fitted with rear fog lamps, very bright rear-facing red lights designed to make the back of the vehicle more visible in fog.

You may have up to two rear fog lamps fitted to your vehicle. If your vehicle already has two rear fog lamps fitted as original equipment, you cannot fit a second pair. Rear fog lamps should also be wired so they can be turned on or off independently of the tail lamps.

After your article on May 7 re neighbours' arguments over trees, I have a question for you and hope you can solve it for me. What are the council's obligations to residents and ratepayers regarding their trees which are planted on the berm and are blocking a fair bit of city and water views from our living areas? Can anything be done to make them top their trees and do the council's obligations apply to the Property Law Act 2007 (sections 333 to 338) in this instance? We would appreciate your suggestion on how to deal with this matter.

Robyn Newman, Orakei

Auckland Council plants trees on road reserve land and grass berms to help beautify the city, help provide a sense of place and identity, and to provide many environmental benefits ,as well. Trees are planted on roads and in parks for the benefit of the whole community.

When new trees are planted in streets, council staff consult local residents to assist in determining an appropriate choice of species. Factors that will be considered include the proximity of underground and overhead utility services, flower and fruiting habits, native or exotic, as well as existing views. Once established, trees are not generally pruned or removed to enhance views from private property, but will be maintained to ensure adequate clearance over carriageways and footpaths, while maintaining the natural shape and form of the trees as much as possible. If tree branches are causing a significant nuisance, such as overhanging private property and interfering with buildings, then the council will also consider pruning those branches.

Do you have a question for Phoebe? It can be about transport or any Auckland issue. Email askphoebe@nzherald.co.nz