New speed limits coming

The new speed reductions along SH6 between Hope and Wakefield will come into effect on 30 July. The lower speed limits follow extensive engagement and consultation with the communities of Hope and Wakefield as well as road user groups, local councils and the NZ Police at the end of last year. “Ensuring speed limits are safe and appropriate for our roads is one of the ways we are helping to create a safer transport system, so that when people do make a mistake it does not cost anyone their life,” says Waka Kotahi Director of Regional Relationships Emma Speight. The new speeds will affect the Hope township where speeds will drop from 70km/h to 60km/h. Then the Hope to Brightwater stretch will drop from 100km/h to 80km/h. The existing speed of 80km/h along the Brightwater township will remain unchanged. Continuing along that road, speeds will drop from 100km/h to 80km/h and finally into Wakefield where it will drop from 70km/h to 60km/h. Each day, around 11,500 vehicles travel between Hope and Brightwater, and 8,500 between Brightwater and Wakefield. More housing development is planned and the population will grow, making this road even busier. The change will reflect that.