Speed limit reversals and local council responses

The story so far

The Government announced in late January 2025 that it would increase speed limits on 38 state highway sections, including parts of State Highway 1 and SH16, to undo reductions made by the previous Labour Government.^{29 Jan 2025; 8 Feb 2025} The changes were due to start with State Highway 2 in Wairarapa and be completed by 1 July, and officials would also consult on possibly lifting limits on 49 more sections.^{29 Jan 2025} In Northland, the lifting of limits on six state highway sections raised safety concerns because of poor road conditions, and new school zone rules drew criticism for undermining local decision-making.^{30 Jan 2025} Councils and communities have pushed back, with the Ashburton District Council strongly opposing a planned increase on State Highway 1 through Rakaia and Tasman communities expressing frustration at delays to proposed reductions near rural roads and schools.^{28 Jan 2025; 5 Feb 2025} Carterton District Council has been unable to implement about 50 speed reductions agreed after 2023 consultation because of a new government transport rule.^{21 Feb 2025}

Latest

Carterton District Council is asking Transport Minister Chris Bishop for permission to proceed with its proposed speed limit changes.^{21 Feb 2025} Martinborough's proposed reductions remain stalled after a fatal crash on Puruatanga Rd, which left one dead and three injured.^{14 Feb 2025}

What's next

The state highway increases are expected to be completed by 1 July, and the Rakaia limit is scheduled to return to 70kph by that date.^{29 Jan 2025; 5 Feb 2025} Chris Bishop has indicated that public consultation may occur on some of the speed limit reversals.^{8 Feb 2025}

Key moments

1. 28 Jan 2025Tasman communities frustrated as government rule delays proposed speed limit reductions.
2. 29 Jan 2025Government confirms increases on 38 state highway sections, with completion by 1 July.
3. 30 Jan 2025Northland concerns raised over lifted limits on six sections and school zone rules.
4. 5 Feb 2025Ashburton District Council formally opposes raising the Rakaia State Highway 1 limit.
5. 8 Feb 2025Transport Minister signals public consultation may occur on some speed limit reversals.
6. 14 Feb 2025Fatal Martinborough crash occurs while proposed speed reductions remain under stalled review.
7. 21 Feb 2025Carterton seeks Transport Minister's permission to implement about 50 stalled reductions.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.