The New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) consulted on increasing to 110km/h the speed limit for the Transmission Gully and Raumati Straights portions of State Highway 1 (SH1). Cost- benefit statements were provided.
The AoNZ Trauma Committee wrote to NZTA, copying the Minister of Health, and made a more detailed submission online on 4 July 2025. Our key points were::
• While potential increases in speed limits may facilitate better traffic flow, the paramount concern must be the safety of all road users; safety must be the primary consideration in decision-making.
• Increasing the speed limit on Transmission Gully must be conditional on maintaining ongoing compliance with the current Roads of National Significance design standards for a 110km/h road, including side barriers and off-road protection; the current 90km/h speed limit for heavy vehicles and towing; and two lanes in each direction so other road users should be able to pass safely.
• Recommending review of all serious injuries and fatalities, including external audit, at two and four years and commitment to reverse the 110km/h speed limit if deaths/serious injuries have increased.
• Opposing the proposed speed limit increase on the Raumati Straights until further consultation following completion of safety improvements required to meet the Roads of National Significance design standards for a 110km/h road.
RACS is committed to supporting initiatives focused on reducing road trauma, preventing deaths, and enhancing the quality of life for those impacted by road crashes. Only with due recognition of the burden of injury associated with road-related trauma can we expect to achieve generational and long-lasting change.
Read submissions to the New Zealand Transport Authority (PDF 213.54KB) and the Hon Simeon Brown, Minister of Health (PDF 141.42KB)