Published on 07 April 2026
The government’s approach to setting speed limits around New Zealand schools means new electronic and fixed signage around eight schools in the Waitaki District.
In recent weeks, New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi have installed electronic signage limiting speed during school pickup and dropoff times along State Highway 1 in Oamaru and Palmerston and State Highway 83 in Duntroon and Omarama.
At the same time, Waitaki District Council are installing signage on the side-roads it manages, creating a speed-limited zone around the school entrances.
The speed limits are variable, reducing motorist speed to 30 km/h during school pick up and drop off times, and returning to 50 km/h at all other times.
The Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 set these zones at a maximum of 150 metres from school gates.
The estimated cost of installing signs on roads controlled by Waitaki District Council is approximately $50,000 – which will be funded 57% by NZTA Waka Kotahi and 43% by Waitaki District Council.
ENDS
media@waitaki.govt.nz