Safer Speeds for Selwyn

What we are doing

Selwyn District Council is proposing speed limit reductions at 36 locations across the district to support new infrastructure developments and help make our roads safer for everyone.

We are seeking your feedback on these proposed speed changes before submitting a final proposal to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), for approval.

Why we are proposing speed limit reductions

As Waikirikiri Selwyn grows, roads that were once rural now connect new housing developments, schools, and commercial areas, with more cars, bikes, trucks, and people using them every day. Lowering speeds in the right places helps keep everyone safer.

These changes aim to:

• Support growth and changes in land use
• Improve safety for everyone who uses our roads
• Keep our transport network running efficiently

While speed isn’t the only factor in a crash, it does determine whether someone is seriously injured or killed. These changes are part of the Council’s commitment to building a safer, more connected community for everyone.

Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024

The Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, came into effect on 30 October 2024 and sets out how speed limits are set across New Zealand to improve safety, support the economy, and keep people and goods moving efficiently.

Usually, Road Controlling Authorities must develop a full Speed Management Plan. However, the Rule also allows for targeted changes under the Alternative Method, where there are urgent safety concerns or a need for consistency.

We are following this process which requires public consultation and engagement with key stakeholders, such as road users (including freight operators), schools, mana whenua, businesses and neighbouring Road Controlling Authorities. Once consultation is complete, the proposal will be submitted to NZTA for approval.

Road safety objectives

This proposal aligns with the Government’s road safety objectives which include taking a balanced and targeted approach to speed limits by considering safety, economic impacts, including travel times, and community views.

Assessing the impacts of speed changes

As part of this proposal, we are required to prepare a cost benefit disclosure statement for each speed limit change. This outlines how we have considered the safety benefits, potential travel time impacts, and implementation costs of the proposed speed limit changes.

This helps ensure our proposals are evidence-based and meet the requirements of the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024.

Tell us what you think

We want to know what you think about the proposed speed limit reductions on roads across our district in:

• Rolleston (12 locations)
• Northern Rolleston (6 locations)
• Lincoln (6 locations)
• Prebbleton (2 locations)
• Tai Tapu (1 location)
• Leeston (2 locations)
• Burnham (4 locations)
• Darfield (1 location)
• West Melton (2 locations)

For each road you will be able to:

1. View maps showing the location of the proposed speed limit change
2. Review the current and proposed speed limit change and indicate whether you support it
3. Share how you use the road and any concerns or suggestions you have

Your feedback will help us shape the final proposal and make sure it reflects the needs and values of Selwyn’s communities.

To have your say, read the consultation document and refer to the cost benefit disclosure statements in the key documents section, then complete the online survey using the button below.

You are welcome to comment on as many or as few road locations as you like.

Consultation closes 5pm Wednesday 6 August.