Hi Geekzoners and New Zealanders,
I recently earned my Restricted License ( in 3rd attempt ) and drove from Auckland to Rotorua ( via Matamata ) last weekend to celebrate. I had a great time.
I believe I am a good driver and I make it a point to stick to all road rules including speed limits.
However there was one thing which concerned me.
I am aware that nobody should drive faster than 100 kmph ( +10 kmph) on any NZ road and that one needs to stick to safer speeds displayed on state highways where applicable.
When I was driving on SH 2 / SH 27 / SH 5 I noticed that people were tailgating me. They do so even when I am driving at speed limit. I try to let people in haste go but I can't do it every time because there may not be enough space on the side of the road and passing lanes are not everywhere. Where there is some space, I stop sometimes and let people go but sooner or later some other cars tailgate me. And I cant stop every time. I noticed people overtaking me even when I am doing 120 kmph sometimes. But in the safety of myself and others I don't do 120 always.
Given that state highways are not multi-laned, this whole thing makes me feel bad and uncomfortable because it looks like I am blocking the road for many cars behind me by simply observing safe speed limit. And despite other drivers over speeding and not following 2 seconds rule.
This is not the case on motorways because there are 2 lanes I usually stick to left lane.
Can some experienced and responsible Kiwi drivers let me know their thoughts on this matter. It will help me greatly.
Thanks heaps,
Chaitanya