Sharrows (share arrows) are road markings to show shared traffic lane environments for people on bikes and in cars.

Sharrow markings are used where it might be a good idea for people on bikes to 'take the lane'(external link), such as 

  • at roundabouts
  • in low-speed environments
  • in neighbourhood greenways.

Taking the lane means people biking need to indicate and move into the middle of the lane.

Please approach sharrows with care whether you’re riding a bike or in a vehicle.

If you're on a bike

  • Check there’s enough space to take the lane.
  • Indicate where you’re going.
  • Move into the middle of the lane so you’re more visible.
  • Bike through the roundabout.
  • Return to the left side of the road when you’ve travelled through the roundabout.

If you're in a vehicle

  • Expect people to bike in the middle of the lane when there are sharrows.
  • Give any cyclists in front enough space to take the lane.

More on riding in traffic and taking the lane can be found in the code for cycling(external link) on the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency website.

You can read more about sharrow markings on Newsline.(external link)