New 110km/h Speed Limit on Kāpiti Expressway will come into effect on Nov 13

Earlier-than-expected speed limit increase on Kāpiti Expressway aims to boost economic productivity and cut travel times, with widespread public support.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced that the new 110km/h speed limit for the Kāpiti Expressway will come into effect on November 13, 2024, more than two weeks ahead of schedule. This change applies to a 24.5-kilometer stretch of the expressway, covering areas from north of the Poplar Avenue at Raumati interchange to south of the Ōtaki northern interchange, and is expected to reduce travel times and enhance transportation efficiency for people and goods.

“Boosting economic growth and productivity is a priority for the Government. The new 110km/h speed limit will help reduce travel times, increase efficiency, and ensure that people and freight can move quickly and safely,” Minister Brown said.

The Kāpiti Expressway, which includes the Mackays to Peka Peka and Peka Peka to Ōtaki Roads of National Significance (RoNS), was originally designed and constructed by the previous National government with a focus on high safety standards. Since the expressway's opening, there have been no fatal accidents reported on this route, underscoring its safe design and suitability for a higher speed limit.

The increase follows extensive public consultation led by the NZ Transport Agency, which found significant support for the proposed 110km/h limit. “Earlier this year, 93 percent of submitters supported the speed limit increase, highlighting a strong desire among New Zealanders to make travel quicker and more efficient,” Brown said.

The Kāpiti Expressway serves as a vital corridor for commuters and freight transportation between Wellington and the northern regions, and this increase aligns with the Government’s broader goals for improving transport networks and supporting economic growth. In addition to reducing travel times, the move is expected to enhance the flow of goods across the region, providing an economic boost through improved productivity and connectivity.

The speed limit change also aligns with recent safety improvements implemented across various highways. Advanced signage, modern road surfaces, wider lanes, and improved barriers on the Kāpiti Expressway have contributed to its high safety rating, making it well-suited for the increased limit. According to the Transport Ministry, vehicles traveling at 110km/h on roads with these enhanced safety features can maintain an efficient balance between speed and safety.

Brown highlighted that the 110km/h limit will contribute to meeting the Government’s commitments to create a more effective transport network for New Zealanders. “This is part of our Government’s plan to help Kiwis get where they need to go quickly and safely by enhancing travel efficiency across key transport routes,” he added.

Local business leaders have welcomed the new speed limit, citing that faster travel times will make the Kāpiti region more attractive for businesses and tourism. With this change, the Government aims to ensure that Kiwis experience both time-saving benefits and improved productivity on the road, especially along routes critical to economic and regional development. The new speed limit is expected to be closely monitored to ensure that the safety record remains strong, with additional support from local police to encourage safe driving at higher speeds.

The new speed limit will take effect on November 13, marking a significant milestone for the Kāpiti Expressway and setting a precedent for other roads designed to accommodate similar speed increases.