Speed limit changes around schools move up a gear

Plans to introduce new variable speed limits around Far North schools are on track, with changes to be implemented at an additional 32 schools this year.

At the Far North District Council meeting on Thursday 5 March, elected members agreed to introduce the new variable speed limits to the schools by 1 July 2026, in accordance with a central government rule. The rule requires councils, as Road Controlling Authorities, to implement new speed limits around schools.

These are not reversals of previously applied limits, but are new limits required under the rule to improve safety at these schools.

The changes in limits will be subject to review by NZTA Waka Kotahi before they are implemented. In general, the new limits will be either 30km/h in urban areas or 60km/h in rural areas and apply at specific times around the start and end of the school day.

NZTA Waka Kotahi is providing funding assistance at the normal 71 per cent financial assistance rate provided to the Far North District Council. The council has set aside funds in the Long-Term Plan 2024-2027 to cover its share of implementing the new speed limits.

The 32 schools that will see new limits introduced between now and 1 July are: Herekino School, Hōreke School, Kaikohe East School, Kaikohe Intermediate, Kaikohe West, Kaitāia College, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori ō Pukemiro, Kaitāia Intermediate, Kaitāia Primary, Kāretu School, Kawakawa Primary, Mangōnui School, Maromākū School, Mōtatau School, Ōhaeawai School, Ōkaihau College, Ōkaihau Primary, Paparore School, Peria School, Pukenui School, Rāwene School, Russell School, Taipā Area School, Te Hāpua School, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori ō Kaikohe, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori ō Te Tonga ō Hokianga, Te Kura a Iwi ō Ōmanaia, Te Kura ō Waikare, Tōtara North School, Te Rangi Aniwaniwa, Waihārara School and Springbank School.