More than half of AA members report risky incidents from poor roads

More than half of AA members surveyed say they experienced a dangerous or risky incident caused by poor road conditions in the past year, according to a new survey. 

The AA’s State of Local Transport Survey 2026 found 55% of respondents had experienced at least one safety-related incident they attributed to poorly maintained roads over the previous 12 months. 

More than 8000 members took part in the survey. 

Of respondents, 35% said they had to brake suddenly or take evasive action to avoid a hazard, while 25% reported damage to their vehicle. Nearly a quarter, 23%, said they had experienced a near miss with another road user. 

AA road safety spokesman Dylan Thomsen says it is "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”. 

The findings come as road conditions and potholes remain a frequent frustration for motorists across the country. 

AA road safety spokesman Dylan Thomsen said the results suggested road maintenance remained a significant safety issue. 

“We’ve known for some time road maintenance is a major issue and our roads aren’t where they should be, but still these figures were much higher than we expected,” Thomsen said. 

“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.” 

The survey also found that smoother roads and fewer potholes were the most wanted transport improvement among respondents. Nearly half, 48%, ranked better road conditions as their top priority, ahead of concerns about road safety and traffic congestion. 

The AA is calling for maintenance to be given priority in future transport budgets, arguing governments face pressure to fund new projects while existing roads continue to deteriorate. Image / AA 

However, the survey suggested drivers in rural areas continued to face greater challenges. 

Rural respondents were more likely to report poor road conditions, vehicle damage and concerns about maintenance outcomes than those living in urban areas. 

Despite negative experiences reported by many drivers, satisfaction with local road conditions showed signs of improvement. 

Thirty-four per cent of respondents said they were satisfied with the condition of roads in their area, up from 26% in 2025. Dissatisfaction fell from 54% to 42% over the same period. 

Thomsen said recent increases in road maintenance spending appeared to be making a difference, but work was still needed to address years of underinvestment. 

“It’s encouraging to see signs of progress,” he said. 

The AA is calling for road maintenance and renewals to remain a priority for future transport funding decisions. 

“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.”