The NZ Transport Agency has set new permanent speed limits on SH1 for the Glenavy township through to the Waitaki Bridge village, flanking both sides of the Waitaki River.

From Friday 18 September 2020, the new permanent speed limits on SH1, Glenavy from 110m north of White Street to 140m south of McLean Street, will reduce from 70kph to 60kph.

On SH1, south of Glenavy from 140m south of McLean Street to 330m south of Jackson Road, the speed limit will reduce from 100kph to 80kph.

“The community has been asking for reductions in the speed limits in this area for some time,” says Jim Harland, NZTA director regional relationships.

“Many tourists stop near the river and many pedestrians cross the highway in this area. There have also been a number of crashes here. In the 10 years between 2009 and 2018 there were 26 crashes on this section of road. One person was killed, three people were seriously injured, and another 16 received minor injuries. 

“All crashes are unacceptable, so it‘s important we do whatever we can to reduce the risk,” says Harland.

The setting of the new permanent speed limits follows engagement with the police, the AA, the Road Transport Forum, and consultation with the public.  More than 80 submissions were received.

Waimate District Council Mayor Craig Rowley says he‘s thrilled with this decision as the council and community has fought long and hard to reduce the speed limits in this area.

“It is pleasing to see the Transport Agency recognising and implementing these changes,” he says.

More information on the permanent speed limits and the consultation summary, including the submissions can be found at: www.nzta.govt.nz/SH1-glenavy-waitaki-bridge-speed-review

Map of speed review area, Glenavy SH1.

Note: The point at which the speed limit will change from 60kph to 80kph, before the bridge, is now referenced with regard to McLean Street. This is a change in street reference only. Previous materials referenced Redcliff Road.