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Last modified: 13 May 2026 1:13pm

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Selwyn District Council is inviting community feedback on proposed speed limit reductions at 36 locations across the district to support new infrastructure developments and improve road safety.

The proposed changes are required to be consulted on under the new Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, which came into effect on 30 October 2024. The Rule sets out how speed limits are determined across New Zealand to improve safety, support economic activity, and keep people and goods moving efficiently.

The proposed changes reflect the way Waikirikiri Selwyn is growing. “As our district grows, roads that were once rural now connect new housing developments, schools, and commercial areas,” says Tim Mason, Executive Director Infrastructure and Property. “This proposal is about making smart, targeted speed changes to keep people safe while supporting the district’s continued growth.”

The changes aim to:

  • Support growth and changes in land use
  • Improve safety for all road users
  • Help keep Selwyn’s transport network flowing efficiently

The proposed changes are being assessed under the Alternative Method option available in the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024. This process is designed for targeted speed reviews where urgent safety needs or consistency issues exist. It requires both public consultation and engagement with key stakeholders, including road users, mana whenua, schools, businesses, freight operators and neighbouring Road Controlling Authorities.

Each proposed speed change is backed by a Cost Benefit Disclosure Statement, weighing up the likely safety benefits, impact on travel times, and implementation costs.

“Speed isn’t the only factor in crashes, but it’s a key contributor to how serious the outcomes are,” says Mason. “Lowering speeds in the right places is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce harm.”

Feedback from the community will help shape the final proposal, which will then be considered for adoption by the Council and submitted to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi for final approval.

The consultation is open from 9am, Wednesday 6 August 2025.

To learn more and make a submission, visit selwyn.govt.nz/saferspeeds