To help keep young New Zealanders safe, variable speed limits are coming into force outside schools on state highways in Northland and north Auckland, targeting the times when children are most active around our schools.

As part of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) School Speed Limit Programme, electronic variable speed limit signs will display a variable speed limit during peak school traffic times to slow traffic past the school, with the next group of signs in the region going live this week.

“Setting safe speed limits around schools improves safety for all tamariki and whānau as they come in and out of school,” says Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations, Jacqui Hori-Hoult.

It’s part of the Government’s new approach to setting speed limits on New Zealand roads, which came into force on 30 October 2024. 

Under the new rule, by 1 July 2026, schools that have gates alongside a state highway must have variable speed limits of 60km/h or lower depending on the road environment the school is located on.

Variable speed limits are displayed on electronic signs that can be switched on and off at specific times.

“The lower speeds will be set during school drop-off and pick-up times and are enforceable.

“The school and NZTA may also turn the signs on for activities such as late starts, or early finish times, or school functions, when there is similar risk to tamariki.” Ms Hori-Hoult says.

When operating, the variable speed limit will appear on a flashing electronic sign. If the sign is not turned on, the normal permanent speed limit applies.