The new rule allows for variable speed limits outside schools during peak times and increases the maximum speed on Roads of National Significance to 120km/h to improve traffic flow.
Brown defended the decision, stating that the 50km/h speed limit commonly used worldwide for urban roads would align New Zealand with countries like Norway, Denmark, and Japan known for their safe roads.
Despite opposition from road safety experts who warned of increased fatalities and injuries, Brown attributed the decrease in road tolls to increased police breath-testing rather than lower speed limits.
He emphasized the importance of focusing police efforts on high-risk areas to maintain road safety. The implementation of reduced speed limits around schools during peak hours aims to prioritize the safety of young people.
By July 1, 2026, local streets outside schools will have a variable speed limit of 30km/h, while rural roads will be limited to 60km/h or less. Brown emphasized that these measures target high-risk times without inconveniencing drivers unnecessarily.
Support for the plan comes from over 65% of submitters, while Labour’s transport spokesperson, Tangi Utikere, criticized the government for ignoring safety evidence by raising speed limits. Utikere emphasized the correlation between higher speeds and increased fatalities.
He accused the government of disregarding local decisions and forcing councils to backtrack on community consultations. Utikere criticized the government for prioritizing its agenda over local autonomy.
The decision to reverse speed limit reductions has stirred debate on road safety and government intervention in local matters, highlighting the balance between safety measures and individual freedoms.
