Media releases
6 December 2018
Innovative child protection alert feature of 5 star safety rated vehicle
Four new vehicles have achieved 5 stars in ANCAP’s latest round of safety ratings, including a vehicle with an innovative new child protection feature. The Ford Focus, Genesis G70, Jaguar I-PACE and new generation Hyundai Santa Fe all achieved 5 star ratings, against ANCAP’s increased testing standards. The Santa Fe is equipped with a Child Presence Alert which sounds if there is still a child in the backseat as the driver is leaving the vehicle. The alert is designed to reduce the chance of a baby or young child being left in an unattended vehicle. AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks said it's fantastic that vehicle manufacturers are being innovative when it comes to safety. “AA Roadservice Officers go to more than 600 callouts a year involving children being locked in vehicles. In many instances, the child has accidentally been locked in and both the child and parent become stressed. “It’s really exciting to see new technology which can potentially make a real difference.” Stocks said it was great to also have three other vehicles coming into the market with top safety ratings. The Ford Focus and Genesis G70’s best scores were both for child occupant protection, with the...
30 November 2018
AA warns Kiwi travellers not to get caught short driving abroad
The AA is reminding Kiwi drivers hitting the roads overseas this summer to check if they need an International Driving Permit, with an increasing number of countries now making them mandatory.
19 November 2018
AA and ACC join forces to expand on-road coaching for motorcyclists
The AA and ACC have joined forces to expand on-road coaching for motorcyclists. AA Driving School is now a facilitator of the ACC-funded Ride Forever programme, with courses currently being rolled out in Waikato, Manawatu, Wellington, Otago and Southland. ACC research has found riders who complete a Ride Forever course are 27 per cent less likely to submit a claim with ACC, than riders who haven’t completed a course. Almost 20,000 riders have been through Ride Forever since its 2009 launch.
5 November 2018
NZ follows global lead with speed camera trials and signage
Two trials of average speed cameras and warning signs are good moves to explore fairer and more effective ways of helping drivers stick to the speed limit, says the AA.
30 October 2018
AA Traveller and DOC release walking guide to suit all fitness levels
AA Traveller and the Department of Conservation have released a first-of-its-kind joint walking guide packed full of information on Short Walks, Day Hikes and Great Walks from the top to bottom of New Zealand. While some Kiwi favourites are covered, Walking in New Zealand - from 30 minutes to multi-day also highlights beautiful less-frequented walks, as well as Landmarks Whenua Tohunga walks which showcase Aoteroa’s rich cultural heritage. Safety is a key component of the guide, with details such as terrain, fitness level required and best times to walk covered. The guide features maps, track overviews, local tips and highlights, and information on places to stay. AA Traveller Managing Editor Kath Webster says the guide has something for everyone from gentle strolls the whole family can do through to more challenging treks across valleys and through beech forests, following streams and climbing ridges. “We’re expecting Walking in New Zealand to be hugely popular with both Kiwis and overseas visitors,” Ms Webster says.“Through our partnership with DOC we’ve been able to produce a top quality guide with all the information people need before they put their walking shoes on and venture into our stunning natural environment.” Department of Conservation Customer Engagement...
29 October 2018
AA warns rising fuel costs spells trouble for batteries
The AA is today sounding a warning to Kiwi motorists who are resorting to using their cars less because of rising fuel costs.
23 October 2018
AA urges Kiwis to back local Summer spots with 101 Must-Do’s
The AA is urging Kiwis to get behind the country’s hidden gems and local favourites with the launch of a new 101 Must-Do’s This Summer list.
18 October 2018
AA and Driven reveal top 10 contenders for New Zealand Car of the Year
The New Zealand Automobile Association and NZME’s Driven have today revealed the top 10 contenders battling it out for the honour of becoming the AA Driven New Zealand Car of the Year 2018.
10 October 2018
AA supports furry friends in hour of need
The AA is today moving to support Kiwi pet lovers, with the launch of a new suite of AA Pet Insurance products.