School speed limits lowered
One hundred new cameras will be rolled out across high-risk roads to tackle unsafe speeds around the country.
Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter announced the additional cameras yesterday as part of a broader programme to improve safety around schools.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) will be charged with deciding where the cameras will go. A ‘‘no surprises’’ approach means signs will be erected warning motorists to slow down as they enter high-risk camera areas.
The Government will also lower the speed limit surrounding schools to a maximum of 40kmh in urban areas and 60kmh in rural areas. Currently, schools and councils have to apply to NZTA to lower limits outside their gates.
Only 20 per cent of the nation’s schools currently have speed limits that align with what was announced yesterday.
Genter said on busy arterial routes with schools on them, the new limits would operate only during pick up and drop off periods.
Many parents wanted their kids to walk or cycle to school but did not feel it was safe, she said. ‘‘Safer speeds around schools is proven to make streets safer, more attractive and more accessible for children to walk and cycle.’’
It had been normal for Kiwi children to walk and cycle to school ‘‘a few decades ago’’, but today most children got to school in the back of a car, she said.
‘‘That’s because our streets aren’t safe enough. Our Government wants kids to have the freedom to be independent, to get to school under their own steam whether that’s walking, cycling or by scooter.’’
Lower speed limit rule changes will begin by mid-2020 and be introduced progressively over the next decade in consultation with local councils.