Get moving: Learners allowed if going with flow

Q: There is nothing in the motorcycle road code to say that someone with a learner licence cannot ride on the motorway, as long as the engine size is below 250cc and you do not carry a pillion passenger or exceed 70km/h or drink alcohol. However, I have been told by a police officer that learner riders are not allowed on the motorway because, at 70km/h, they could be ticketed for impeding traffic flow. What is the story here? Lawrence Mikkelsen, Massey.

A: A source at Land Transport New Zealand says it is not illegal to ride a motorbike at 70km/h on the motorway, but as you note, it is an offence to impede the flow of traffic. As long as a learner stays in the slow (left-hand) lane and keeps as far to the left as safe and practicable, the traffic flow should not be obstructed.

Q: The Shell service station on the corner of Pitt and Vincent Sts, although staffed by charming people, is a real hazard. Cars filling up or parking frequently cover the footpath, leaving hapless pedestrians to walk on the road and, at times, into oncoming traffic hurtling up Pitt. Cars entering and leaving the service station also make for a game of dodgems, which would be fun if it weren't for the potential for permanent disfigurement, death or maiming. Can anything be done here? Clare Ferguson, Sandringham.

A: Auckland City Council reports that there have been no crashes involving pedestrians at this corner in the last five years. Good news. Any change to the intersection would involve a major redesign of the service station, which would be hard to justify given the crash statistics. However, and here's more good news, the council will put in more street markings to highlight the need for care by motorists. They will also work with the service station to see if there are opportunities to improve access to the site and thus minimise conflict between those who walk and those who don't.

Q: When is the next planned marking for roads in Otahuhu? Hospital Rd, Golf Ave and Mangere Rd are just a few that are past their use-by date. John Bean, Auckland.

A: Road marking in this area is scheduled for the first two months of next year. However, if there are specific areas that need urgent attention, in this area or any other part of Auckland city, people can telephone the council call centre on (09) 379-2020.