What we are proposing
We are committed to improving road safety for all. After discussions with Mahimaru marae and Kareponia marae we have created an alternative solution that proposes variable speed limit signs outside these marae to slow traffic when vehicles are entering or exiting the marae, or people are walking alongside the highway to the Komako urupā (cemetery). At all other times the speed limit past the marae would be 80km/h, a reduction from the current 100km/h limit.
Electronic variable speed limit (VSL) signs improve road safety for all road users by reducing speed limits for a short period of time only when required.
Vehicles slowing to enter or exit the marae will automatically activate the VSL signs through sensor-pads embedded in the highway and the marae driveways. Once activated the VSL will display a 60km/h speed limit, slowing traffic so vehicles can turn safely.
During tangihanga, when people are walking to and from the urupā, the VSL signs can be activated manually. This will slow passing vehicles to 30km/h, helping protect people walking alongside the highway from unsafe vehicle speeds.
As well as the VSL past the marae, we are also proposing other speed limit changes between Awanui and Kaingaroa, as described in the table below.
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