NZTA reconsiders 100 km/h speed limits after fatal crash and backlash
Speed limits on two key highways south of Levin may soon drop back to 80 km/h. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is reviewing a recent increase to 100 km/h after strong opposition from the local community. Concerns over safety and a fatal crash have pushed authorities to reconsider the decision.
The speed limits on State Highway 1 and State Highway 57 were raised to 100 km/h following a consultation under the previous Labour-led government. Over half of the respondents at the time supported the change. However, local residents, iwi, and freight operators quickly raised alarms about the risks.
During the period with the higher limit, one fatal crash occurred on the road. Between 2020 and 2025, when the limit was 80 km/h, no deaths were recorded. Molly Page, a resident near the Speldhurst estate, argued that the road remains dangerous, especially for elderly neighbours. Roger Parton, chair of the Speldhurst Residents Committee, also backed the push to revert, highlighting safety fears.
Now, NZTA has launched a new consultation to lower the limits again. The proposal includes reducing speeds to 80 km/h and introducing variable limits near Tukorehe Marae and Wehi Wehi Marae. Transport Minister Chris Bishop acknowledged the road's current safety but stressed that ongoing development in the area justifies the decision.
Local leaders have welcomed the move. Horowhenua Deputy Mayor David Allan called it 'better late than never'. The decision follows sustained pressure from the community and council, who had long warned against the original increase.
The reversal of the speed limit hike comes after a fatal crash and persistent concerns from residents and officials. If approved, the changes would reinstate the previous 80 km/h limit and introduce flexible zones near marae sites. NZTA's final decision will depend on the outcome of the latest consultation.
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