Half of AA Members have safety scare because of poor road conditions
2 October 2026
More than half of AA Members have experienced dangerous or risky situations due to poor road conditions in the past year, highlighting why fixing New Zealand’s roads must remain a Government priority.
The AA's State of Local Transport Survey 2026 found that 55% of the more than 8,000 Members who took part experienced at least one safety-related incident caused by poorly maintained roads in the previous 12 months. More than a third had to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid a hazard, while a quarter reported damage to their vehicle.
The findings reinforce the AA's 2026 Election Call for road maintenance to have the first call on transport funding. The AA is urging all political parties to commit to maintenance and renewals being the top budgeting priority in transport so roads can be fixed before they deteriorate to the point where costly reconstruction is needed.
"When more than half of people say they've experienced a scare because of poor roads, it's a reminder that maintenance isn't just about comfort. It's about keeping people safe,” says AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen.
“It’s hugely concerning to have a third of people saying they had a near miss and a quarter saying they have suffered damage to their vehicle because of poorly maintained roads.”
Better road conditions were AA Members' top transport priority in 2026, with 48% identifying smoother roads and fewer potholes as the improvement they most wanted to see in their area, ahead of both road safety and reduced traffic congestion.
Despite increased maintenance activity in recent years, satisfaction with local road conditions still left a lot to be desired. Satisfaction rose from 26% in 2025 to 34% in 2026, while dissatisfaction fell from 54% to 42%.
Members in rural areas were significantly more likely to report vehicle damage, poor road conditions and worsening maintenance outcomes.
Dylan says the results show recent increased investment is showing some positive signs, but there is still a lot of work to do.
"It's encouraging to see signs of progress. New Zealand spent decades underinvesting in road maintenance and it will take time to turn that around, which is why the AA wants the next Government to ensure the transport budget makes maintenance it’s top priority.
"Prevention is almost always cheaper than rebuilding a road that's been allowed to fail.
"Maintaining the roads we already have is one of the smartest transport investments we can make. Every pothole that's repaired before it becomes a major failure saves money, reduces risk and helps keep New Zealand moving.”
Survey findings quick facts:
- 55% of AA Members experienced a road safety issue due to poor road condition in the past 12 months.
- 35% had to brake suddenly or take evasive action to avoid a hazard.
- 25% suffered vehicle damage.
- 23% had a near miss with another road user
- Satisfaction with local road condition increased from 26% in 2025 to 34% in 2026.
Dissatisfaction fell from 54% to 42%. - 48% identified smoother roads and fewer potholes as a top transport priority.
ENDS
For more information contact:
Dylan Thomsen
AA Road Safety spokesperson
027 703 9935
dthomsen@aa.co.nz