Towing

Know your limits

Your vehicle's maximum towing capacity, the towbar's rating and the tow ball's rating all apply – the lowest one is your limit. Keep tow ball (download) weight within the vehicle and towbar ratings, load the trailer evenly, and don't forget the combined weight of vehicle, passengers, gear and trailer.

Trailer brakes in NZ

NZTA rules for light trailers, by laden weight (trailer plus load):

• 2,000kg or less: brakes aren't required, but if fitted they must work on each wheel of at least one axle. A breakaway brake is required unless the trailer has an appropriate coupling and a safety chain.
• 2,001–2,500kg: a service brake (direct or override) is required on each wheel of at least one axle – an axle that keeps or gains load under braking. A breakaway brake is required unless it has an appropriate coupling and two safety chains.
• 2,501–3,500kg: a service brake is required – either direct brakes (e.g. electric) on each wheel of at least one axle, or an override brake that complies with UN/ECE Regulation 13, with a brake on every wheel. A parking brake on at least one complete axle is also required. A breakaway brake is required unless it has an appropriate coupling and two safety chains (chains are still recommended with a breakaway brake).

If your trailer has electric brakes, the tow vehicle needs an electric brake controller to operate them.

Why a brake controller matters

A good electric brake controller applies the trailer brakes in proportion to how hard you brake, so the trailer slows itself instead of shoving the vehicle. That means shorter, straighter stops, less strain on your vehicle's brakes and drivetrain, and far more control on hills, in the wet and when a gust or passing truck starts the trailer moving.