From reversing a boat trailer down the ramp or loading up a caravan in the most balanced way, it takes practice to feel comfortable towing.
But the rewards are the convenience and the independence of moving large items yourself. Before hitting the road with a trailer, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements.
“It’s not just a case of going down to Bunnings and hooking up a trailer,” Robert Wriesnik, AA Driving Instructor says. “It’s the driver’s responsibility to drive legally and safely.”
Towing a light trailer doesn’t require any special licence in New Zealand, so it’s up to the driver to ensure they have the correct knowledge and skills.
You’re legally required to ensure the trailer has a safe and strong coupling, with a safety chain or safety cable. There need to be two white lights at the front of the trailer showing how wide it is (if over two metres wide), two red reflectors and stop lights, indicators, a number plate and light, mudguards and safe tyres (with a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm). If the load you’re carrying hangs over the rear of the trailer by more than a metre, you must attach a flag of 400 x 300mm.
The maximum speed when towing is limited to 90km/h on the open road; the maximum overall weight of a trailer plus towing vehicle on a class 1 full licence is 6,000kg.
To avoid your trailer swaying, make sure the load is evenly distributed to maintain a low centre of gravity, with the load placed towards the front of the trailer, ahead of the trailer axel.
“You need to be aware that overloading and uneven loading of trailers can seriously affect a vehicle’s handling,” Rob says. “Sway can occur, especially in high winds or with sudden movements. To minimise sway, distribute the weight evenly side-to-side, make sure the trailer is level and the hitch connection is secure.”
If your trailer does start to sway, avoid making sudden steering movements or braking quickly. Ease off the accelerator and gently apply the brakes. Once it's back under control, safely pull over to a stop and check your load distribution.
Also, remember the added weight behind you means you’ll need more space to stop. “Increase your following distance from two seconds to four seconds,” Rob says. “Also, brake earlier to allow for the added stopping time required.”
When towing, you will be slower than other traffic. Check behind you often, and pull over at a safe place to allow others to pass if a queue is forming.
How to reverse a trailer
Go slow! Reversing with a trailer requires patience, so take your time and make minor adjustments when necessary. Align the rear of your vehicle with the starting point of the trailer’s desired path. Begin reversing slowly, gently applying the brakes as necessary. Remember that the trailer will move in the opposite direction of the steering input due to its pivot point.
Mirrors are your friend. Use your side mirrors to monitor the trailer’s movement and trajectory. Adjust them to have a clear view of the trailer’s path. Even better, have a spotter assist you from outside the vehicle. Don’t hesitate to stop, get out and look to see where you are.
Steer opposite. As the trailer starts to rotate, steer in the opposite direction to where you want the trailer to go by focusing on the rear end of the trailer and steer by holding the steering wheel at the bottom. This might feel counterintuitive at first, but with practice, you will gain better control. If the trailer starts to jack-knife, stop the vehicle, pull forward and try again.
Story by Kathy Catton for the Spring 2024 issue of AA Directions Magazine.