Speed camera expansion
Thirty-three permanent fixed speed cameras will be installed around the country over the next few months, with work starting on the first site this week.
They are part of a $10 million speed camera expansion programme announced by police in July 2013 which will eventually see up to 56 fixed speed cameras installed across New Zealand.
National road policing manager Superintendent Steve Greally said police knew from international experience that speed cameras had an impact on slowing people down, particularly around the sphere of influence of the camera.
‘‘This is why we are placing fixed speed cameras at this and other sites to encourage people to reduce their mean speeds, which, when coupled with road safety improvements and other measures, helps to reduce deaths and injuries.’’
Greally said police were not interested in collecting revenue from the speed cameras.
‘‘We’re only interested in the impact they can have in encouraging people to slow down and get to their destination safely.
‘‘It’s quite simple, if people drive at an appropriate and safe speed for the road and the conditions, they’ll be in no danger of getting a ticket – or more importantly being involved in a crash.’’
The poles that will hold the speed cameras will be erected during spring.