A new 80kph speed limit will come into effect for a section of Horahora Road in coming days, following productive Council discussions with the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and central Government.
The restrictions will be put in place between Lancewood Lane and Pokaiwhenua Bridge at the top of the hill towards State Highway 1 (view map below), for an initial period of six months on a trial basis.
South Waikato Mayor Gary Petley said it was good news for the District, following constructive discussion with Minister of Transport and Minister of Local Government, the Hon Simeon Brown.
“This is a really good result for the South Waikato; it’s something we have been advocating for over a long period on behalf of our community, who have made their concerns about the issue clear,” Mayor Petley said.
“I explained to the Minister the issues our District has right now, particularly while major roadworks are diverting traffic to country roads not made to handle so much traffic.
“The Minister heard those concerns and gave me assurance that we have his support.
“While these measures may not go as far as some have requested, it is a significant step in the right direction.”
In addition to the speed restrictions, NZTA Waka Kotahi will install traffic measurement devices to assess the volume of vehicles using the road.
