New Zealand Police are seeing a growing number of youths riding high-powered electric bikes, e-dirt bikes and e-scooters that are not legal for use without a licence or registration

Their primary concern is safety - we only need to look at what is unfolding in Australia to see the serious injuries and risks associated with these powerful machines.

We know there is confusion about what is and isn’t lawful, so we want to help make this as simple and clear as possible. Here is a short information sheet outlining the key points for parents, caregivers, and students.

Dirt bikes and electric-powered bikes over 300W must comply with New Zealand Road Rules.  Where vehicles are used dangerously, illegally or in an antisocial manner, riders may face charges for unlawful or dangerous driving. Vehicles that are not road-legal or are being used unlawfully can be seized or impounded. 

Like parents, we want young people to be safe and able to enjoy their communities without putting themselves or others at risk. 

Police will continue to engage with young riders and take an education-first approach. However, where anti-social riding behaviour is identified, enforcement action will be taken.

Thank you for your continued support in keeping our young people and wider community safe.