The Queenstown Lakes District Council is seeking community input on these changes as part of an effort to enhance road safety across the district.
The proposed alterations include setting a 40kmh limit in new residential development areas and a 50kmh limit in peripheral locations like Domain Rd and Cemetery Rd in Lake Hawea. Additionally, the speed on Golf Course Rd is suggested to be lowered from 70kmh to 40kmh.
Another recommendation is to reduce the speed limit on a portion of Cardrona Valley Rd, near the Cardrona Skifield access road intersection, from 80kmh to 60kmh.
A representative from the Wanaka Golf Club noted that they had previously supported reduced speed limits on Ballantyne Rd before the installation of a new crossing and traffic lights.
“This was due to vehicles speeding through the intersection at Golf Course/Ballantyne Rds, creating a safety concern. Now, with the traffic light and calming measures, this issue has been addressed,” she explained.
Council strategic asset manager Alison Tomlinson emphasized the council’s responsibility for setting safe and suitable speed limits on local roads, highlighting that public safety is a top concern.
“Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, or using a scooter, everyone should be able to travel safely. As our district expands, more people are moving between towns and communities daily. Our vision is for every person to travel safely and efficiently,” she stated.
Tomlinson also mentioned that reducing speeds in areas with a history of accidents is a proven method to enhance safety.
“We understand some may worry about travel times, but generally, the impact is minimal,” she added.
The council’s Safer Speeds 2026 Let’s Talk page emphasized the importance of speed management, noting, “Lower speeds decrease both the number and severity of accidents, thereby reducing the social costs related to each incident and the demand on emergency services.”
Feedback from the survey will be instrumental in finalizing the speed limit changes in the speed management plan and will inform future updates to the plan.
The speed management plan is slated for council adoption in mid-2026.
evie.sinclair@odt.co.nz
