Parts of New Zealand could see speed limits increased to 110km/h for the first time ever under rule changes proposed by NZTA.
First announced in November, the draft speed limit rule is now open for the public to have their say until June 16.
The proposed changes recognise New Zealand's best roads can safely allow for a higher speed limit, and they also allow for emergency speed limits to be created during crisis situations such as storms or earthquakes.
"Some stretches of our most modern roads built to a standard that supports higher travel speeds without compromising safety will be considered for 110kmh limits," NZTA road safety director Harry Wilson says.
"These roads will need to have at least two lanes in each direction, a median barrier, and no direct access to neighbouring properties."
Roads that fit the criteria for a speed limit increase include the Tauranga Eastern Link and the Cambridge section of the Waikato Expressway.
Roads that are currently under construction may also be included, such as Transmission Gully in Wellington and the Northern and Southern sections of the Christchurch motorway.
Mr Wilson says the draft Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits (2017) allows tailoring to be made where speed limits are too low or too high, but there are no plans for "wholesale changes" to speed limits.
"Not all roads have the same risk, and we need to reflect that in the way we manage speed. The priority will be looking at roads where changes to travel speeds will have the greatest impact on safety or economic productivity," Mr Wilson says.
The proposed new rule is open for public consultation until June 16.
Newshub.
