New Zealand’s scenic roads can take you to some of the most beautiful places in the world — but when your vehicle breaks down far from help, the experience can quickly become stressful. Whether you’re on a rural road, a coastal highway, or deep in the South Island, knowing what to do next can keep you safe and make recovery faster.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you handle roadside breakdowns safely — and how OTS Group can help with 24/7 Emergency Towing Services anywhere in New Zealand.
1. Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is still mobile, carefully steer it to the side of the road or a nearby pull-off. Avoid stopping on corners, bridges, or narrow shoulders. If you’re unable to move it, switch on your hazard lights and stay visible to other drivers.
On rural or unlit roads, use a torch or phone light to make yourself visible at night — but never stand in the traffic lane.
2. Turn On Hazard Lights & Stay Visible
Hazard lights alert oncoming traffic that your vehicle has stopped. If you have reflective triangles or cones, place them 30–50 metres behind your car to warn other drivers, especially on high-speed rural roads.
Keep your headlights or park lights on in low-visibility conditions like rain or fog.
3. Stay Inside the Vehicle if It’s Unsafe Outside
On busy highways or narrow shoulders, the safest place is often inside your car with your seatbelt on. Only exit the vehicle if it’s safe and necessary — for example, if you need to inspect a tyre on a quiet road or step behind a barrier.
4. Contact a 24/7 Towing or Roadside Assistance Provider
Once you’re safe, call a professional towing provider that offers 24-hour service. Give them your location (use Google Maps if you’re unsure) and a brief description of what happened.
OTS Group operates a nationwide long-distance towing and intercity transport network — meaning we can reach you anywhere in New Zealand, from Auckland’s motorways to South Island backroads.
5. Stay with Your Vehicle Until Help Arrives
It’s usually safest to remain near your vehicle once you’ve called for assistance. Keep your phone charged and conserve battery by closing unused apps or dimming the screen. If you’re travelling in a remote area with poor reception, try moving to higher ground or flagging down another driver to call for help.
6. Prepare for Common Situations
Carrying a few essentials can make a huge difference if you ever find yourself stranded. Keep these items in your vehicle at all times:
- Charged phone and car charger or power bank
- High-visibility vest and warning triangle
- Torch and extra batteries
- First-aid kit and bottled water
- Jumper leads and tyre repair kit
7. Arrange a Safe Tow or Transport
Once help arrives, ensure your vehicle is loaded safely and securely. OTS Group operators use hydraulic tilt trays, wheel straps, and soft harness systems to prevent further damage — especially for low-clearance or electric vehicles.
All tows are fully insured from pickup to drop-off, so you can relax knowing your vehicle is in professional hands.
Summary — Stay Calm, Stay Safe, and Call for Help
Breaking down in a remote area can be unnerving, but preparation and calm decision-making make all the difference. With 24/7 emergency coverage, modern equipment, and nationwide reach, OTS Group ensures you’re never left stranded for long.
Call 0800 22 00 33 or Request Roadside Assistance now for immediate help anywhere in New Zealand.