New speed limits coming in around Waterview Tunnel

Speed limits between 30km/h and 100km/h will be introduced around the Waterview Tunnel from around April next year.

The news comes as the NZ Transport Agency reveals there were more than 330 incidents including 20 crashes between the opening of the tunnel on July 2 and November 23.

NZTA spokeswoman Kathryn Musgrave said they had been monitoring driver behaviour and operational performance since it opened.

Being able to vary the speed limit will improve traffic flow and the performance of the state highway network. The limit will change depending on the driving conditions and traffic volumes.

The variable speed limits will apply on SH16 between St Lukes and Rosebank Rd and on SH20 between Maioro St and Dominion Rd. The speed limit now is 80km/h in these areas, Musgrave said.

“For most of the day, the maximum speed is likely to be 100km/h, but both sections of SH16 and 20 are very busy during peak periods. Reducing the speed limit during busy periods improves traffic flows, meaning everyone can have a more consistent and safer journey.”

Speed limits on the approaches to and inside the Waterview tunnel will not change. The speed limit is set at 80km/h to manage the higher risks associated with a tunnel.

The 20 crashes were all minor and none was in the tunnel.