Ask Our Experts

By Grant Wakerley, Technical Project Manager, RV Supplies

If you've ever towed a caravan or large trailer, you'll know that visibility can change in an instant. Your standard vehicle mirrors, which work perfectly day to day, suddenly don't show the full picture once there's a caravan sitting behind you. That's where towing mirrors come in, not just as a convenience, but as a legal and safety essential on New Zealand roads.

Understanding New Zealand's towing mirror requirements

Under New Zealand law, drivers must always have a clear and continuous view of the road behind their vehicle and trailer. If your caravan or load is wider than your towing vehicle, or if it blocks your rear vision, you are legally required to fit additional towing mirrors that extend your view. In simple terms, if you can't see at least 20 metres behind and 4 metres on either side of your towed load, you need towing mirrors. These mirrors must be securely mounted and remain stable while driving at highway speeds. Failing to use adequate mirrors when required can result in fines and, more importantly, serious safety risks.

How proper mirrors improve safety

Good visibility doesn't just make driving easier; it's critical for safe lane changes, overtaking and merging. Properly fitted towing mirrors let you see traffic approaching from behind without swaying your vehicle to get a view, judge safe overtaking distances more accurately, monitor your trailer or caravan for sway, tyre issues or open compartments, and avoid blind spots, especially when cornering or manoeuvring in tight areas.

Types of towing mirrors and how to fit them

Clip on mirrors attach directly onto your existing vehicle mirrors, quick to install and remove, ideal for occasional towing. Door or fitting mounted mirrors provide even greater stability and extension for larger caravans, mounting onto the door frame or body of the vehicle. When fitting any towing mirror, adjust them so you can just see the side of your caravan along the inner edge of the mirror, ensure both mirrors are extended equally to maintain balance and perspective, and double check they are tight and stable before hitting the road.

Spotlight on Milenco Aero Mirrors

At RV Supplies, we recommend Milenco Aero Mirrors, the global benchmark for towing mirror design and quality. Their aerodynamic shape reduces wind noise and vibration, stainless steel clamping screws and brass inserts prevent damage and corrosion, they fit virtually all vehicle mirror housings including curved and modern SUV styles, convex glass gives a wide clear view of your trailer and surrounding traffic, and they're made in the UK to all major international standards.

Final thoughts

Good towing mirrors aren't just about compliance; they're about confidence. Before your next adventure, take a moment to check your mirrors. If your caravan is wider than your tow vehicle, don't risk it, fit a quality pair of Milenco Aero Mirrors and enjoy clear vision every kilometre of the way.

Stay safe and travel smart,

Grant Wakerley
Technical Project Manager, RV Supplies