What is the process for changing a speed limit?
The Government’s Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024 (the Rule) sets out how speed limits on New Zealand roads are managed to support economic growth, boost productivity, and enable people to get to where they are going efficiently and safely.
The Rule supports a targeted approach to speed management by focusing speed reviews on areas of high safety concern, supporting NZ Police to meet speed-related enforcement targets and using variable speed limits outside schools.
Under the Rule, Road Controlling Authorities (RCAs), like Timaru District Council, must consider safety, travel times, costs and community feedback when reviewing or setting speed limits. This includes:
- aligning speed limits with the Rule’s recommended speed ranges for different road types
- undertaking a detailed technical and safety analysis
- consulting with affected stakeholders including local iwi, road users and the transport sector for 6 weeks
- sharing a Cost Benefit Disclosure Statement (CBDS) of the expected impacts on crash numbers and severity and travel time.
All speed changes must be approved by the Director of Land Transport. For a speed to be legally enforceable it must be entered into the National Speed Limit Register (NSLR) in addition to changes to on-road signage.
How can I suggest a different speed limit for my street?
Use the form below to request a speed limit change on a local road in our District.
Council maintains a register of community-requested speed limit reviews and these are reviewed in batches for efficiency.
We're considering current and future speed limit change requests between now and 2027 as part of our assessment process. Any proposed speed limit changes must align with the Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024 and can only be progressed once funding is available to plan, consult, set and implement a new speed limit. Note: We have limited funding for safety improvements.
Final decisions will be informed by technical factors, safety and cost analysis, public consultation outcomes and required approvals.
Last updated: 10 Feb 2026